1989 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1972 Volvo 1800
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 1800. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volvo 1800 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Volvo 1800. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 1800. (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volkswagen Golf | 1972 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 1800 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2460 mm |
