1991 Volvo 850 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 850 (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 850 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2001 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, 1991 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1991 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1991 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Volvo 850 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2434 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2512 mm |
