2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1999 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 89 kg more than 1999 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1999 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
