1999 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1973 Volvo 164

To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volvo 164 (142 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volvo 164 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volvo 164 weights approximately 147 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Volvo 164 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 1973 Volvo 164. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1973 Volvo 164 (221 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1973 Volvo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Volkswagen Golf 1973 Volvo 164
Make Volkswagen Volvo
Model Golf 164
Year Released 1999 1973
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1389 cc 2976 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 73 HP 142 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 126 Nm 221 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76.5 mm 88.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.6 mm 80 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1213 kg 1360 kg
Vehicle Length 4400 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 58 L