2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1972 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volvo 1800 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volvo 1800 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 94 kg more than 1972 Volvo 1800.
Because 1972 Volvo 1800 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 1972 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1972 Volvo 1800 (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 Volvo 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1972 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
