2011 Volvo S80 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S80 (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S80 weights approximately 211 kg more than 2012 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, 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. 2011 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Volvo S80 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | S80 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3200 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1706 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4851 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1862 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1494 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2835 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
