2008 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 565 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (122 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Polo | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | S80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 20.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.4 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1089 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
