2006 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4650 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 240 weights approximately 34 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1983 Volvo 240 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 1983 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 240. (139 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Golf | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4650 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1336 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
