2011 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo S60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo S60 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (138 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 187 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S60. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S60. 2004 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Volkswagen Golf | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S60 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 10.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4199 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.5 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
