2003 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1989 Volvo 245
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 245 (110 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volvo 245 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 245. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 245. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Golf | 1989 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 245 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
