2000 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 291 kg more than 2000 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Volkswagen Golf | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S40 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2800 mm |
