1986 Volvo 242 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 258 kg more than 1986 Volvo 242. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volvo 242 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 242 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2470 mm |
