2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1980 Volvo 66
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 66.
Because 1980 Volvo 66 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 1980 Volvo 66. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1980 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 66 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1287 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1550 mm |
