1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1989 Volvo 740
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 740 (116 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volvo 740 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 1989 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1989 Volvo 740 (194 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 1989 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 1989 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 740 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 194 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2780 mm |
