2009 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1971 Volvo 145
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 145. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volvo 145 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1971 Volvo 145 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 1971 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Golf | 1971 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 145 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
