2008 Volvo XC90 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2008 Volvo XC90. (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 498 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 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:
| 2008 Volvo XC90 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | XC90 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2046 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 62 L |
