1974 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (150 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Golf | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1091 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.5 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16.5 seconds | 11.9 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 | 750 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
