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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 307 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (132 Nm @ 3600 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 | 1984 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 977 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
