2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1981 Volvo 260

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 86 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 1981 Volvo 260 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 1981 Volvo 260. 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Volkswagen Golf 1981 Volvo 260
Make Volkswagen Volvo
Model Golf 260
Year Released 2008 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 2849 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 114 HP 153 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 231 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 91 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 73 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1284 kg 1370 kg
Vehicle Length 4400 mm 4890 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2660 mm


 

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