1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1977 Volvo 66
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 66.
Because 1977 Volvo 66 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 1977 Volvo 66. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 66. 1977 Volvo 66 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volvo 66 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 1977 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 66 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2323 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1550 mm |
