1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 7 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo S40. 2005 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
