2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,946 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V40 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 165 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40.
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, 1996 Volvo V40 (176 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | V40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
