2006 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1980 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 240 (152 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 240 weights approximately 119 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Golf | 1980 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1321 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
