2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 143 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
Model | Golf | V40 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1731 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 164 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1373 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |