1988 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (128 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 786 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volvo S80 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volkswagen Golf | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S80 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
