1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 202 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo S40 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | S40 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1731 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
