1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2006 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S80 (198 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2006 Volvo S80 (285 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2006 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2006 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2800 mm |
