2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (161 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 291 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
Model | Golf | S40 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1390 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 169 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1456 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |