2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2003 Volvo V50
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 V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 154 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 V50 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 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 V50 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
