1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1971 Volvo P 1800
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volvo P 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volvo P 1800 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volvo P 1800 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 55 kg more than 1971 Volvo P 1800.
Because 1971 Volvo P 1800 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 1971 Volvo P 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1971 Volvo P 1800 (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1971 Volvo P 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 1971 Volvo P 1800 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | P 1800 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2460 mm |
