Volvo vs. Volkswagen

When drivers in the East Stroudsburg, Arlington Heights, and Marshalls Creek areas are looking for an automotive brand to get behind, there's no better choice than Volvo. However, some drivers seem to prefer Volkswagen over Volvo. Today, we're going to examine both brands to show their similarities and differences. You'll know which one you can rely on for your automotive needs.

Volvo vs. Volkswagen History

Volvo had a slight head start when it came to introducing reliable consumer vehicles in 1927 in Gothenburg, Sweden. The following year, Volvo began introducing vehicles outside of Sweden. Volkswagen introduced its first model in 1936, as part of the German Labour Front. The company had specialized in luxury vehicles, and 1936 was their first outing for the average consumer, hence "The People's Car," of which Volkswagen found its namesake.

In 1959, Nils Bohlin, an engineer for Volvo, designed a 3-point safety harness for the newer models. This safety harness was not only effective at saving lives, but it was easy to use. Despite the possible dollar value attached to this life-saving invention, Volvo proceeded with an open patent on this device, allowing other manufacturers to include this revolutionary addition to their vehicles for the interest of safety. Because of this act of compassion, rather than greed, millions of lives have been saved since the invention of this harness.

While both automotive manufacturers specialize in safe and affordable luxury vehicles, each brand's lineup is comparable, but with clear differences in sight. In the 1960s, Volkswagen gained a bit of popularity with the Volkswagen Beetle. But with the changing times and the stylistic preferences of drivers, their 15 minutes came to a temporary halt. Volvo branched out with their designs and proto-types. They not only introduced a bus for city riders, but they also ventured into developing engine systems for leisure boats and commercial shipping vessels.

Today's Vehicles

Both Volvo and Volkswagen remain in steady competition with one another and their automotive outings. Each models share some resemblance, but both makers vow that performance and efficiency are the key ingredients to their success and growth. Each company has had a hand in striving toward the future of alternative fuel and electric engines.

In 2009, Volkswagen introduced a fleet of models featuring a 2.0L diesel engine, which promised fewer emissions, better performance, and increased fuel economy. The ruse would soon be interrupted when it was revealed that Volkswagen wasn't entirely honest about the emissions of these diesel engines. They even programmed specific software to cheat on emissions tests, which would show testers that the vehicle is fuel efficient and environmentally friendly. Since this conspiracy was uncovered, Volkswagen payed a settlement of $15.3 billion for the largest automotive consumer class-action lawsuit in U.S. history.

Which Brand to Trust?

In this article, we gave you a little insight into both Volvo and Volkswagen. You learned about the history of each company. When it comes to brand trust, you know that Volvo forwent billions of dollars for its inventive safety harness for the good of consumers. You also learned that Volkswagen violated the trust of emissions specialists and drivers alike.

Would you like to learn more about the Volvo brand? Contact us at Ray Price Volvo-your trusted Volvo dealer in the East Stroudsburg, Arlington Heights, and Marshalls Creek areas.