2009 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1984 Volvo 740
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 25 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 (6 cylinders), 1984 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1984 Volvo 740. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volvo 740 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volvo 740. (143 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volvo 740. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1984 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1984 Volvo 740 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | 1984 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Beetle | 740 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
