1990 Volvo 240 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 160 kg more than 1990 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volvo 240 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 1990 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Volvo 240 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
Model | 240 | Golf |
Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 157 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4534 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |