2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1974 Volvo 245
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 245 (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 245 weights approximately 219 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Volvo 245. 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, 1974 Volvo 245 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Volvo 245 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1974 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 245 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
