1999 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1996 Volvo 440
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (98 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 440. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 210 kg more than 1996 Volvo 440. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 440. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Golf | 1996 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 440 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
