1989 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1992 Volvo 850
To start off, 1992 Volvo 850 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1992 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Volvo 850 (170 HP) has 117 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Volvo 850 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Volvo 850 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 1992 Volvo 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1992 Volvo 850 (221 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1992 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volkswagen Golf | 1992 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 850 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
