1990 Volvo 960 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (120 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 236 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (143 Nm). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 960 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 960 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2578 mm |
