2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 460 (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 159 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 460 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 17 seconds | 13 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
