2003 Volvo S40 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 34 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2003 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo S40 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | S40 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
