1989 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 10 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), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 660 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.
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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volkswagen Golf | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S80 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
