2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1984 Volvo 740
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Volvo 740 (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (67 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volvo 740 weights approximately 31 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 1984 Volvo 740 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 1984 Volvo 740. 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, 1984 Volvo 740 (186 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (133 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1984 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1984 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 740 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2780 mm |
