2004 Volvo S40 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 103 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (240 Nm). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo S40 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | S40 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1950 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.3 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
