2009 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1989 Volvo 760
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 760. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 760 would be higher. At 2,314 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 760 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 760. (163 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 760. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 760 weights approximately 238 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volvo 760 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 1989 Volvo 760. 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 760. (263 Nm @ 3450 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 760. 2009 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 760 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 760 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Golf | 1989 Volvo 760 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 760 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2314 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3450 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
