2004 Volvo V50 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volvo V50 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 Volvo V50. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 118 kg more than 2004 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo V50 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | V50 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |
