2001 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S80. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 361 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
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 S80 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Golf | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S80 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2324 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2800 mm |
