2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1996 Volvo V90
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V90 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V90 (177 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V90 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V90 weights approximately 331 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 1996 Volvo V90 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 1996 Volvo V90. 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, 1996 Volvo V90 (260 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1996 Volvo V90 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | V90 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
