2012 Volkswagen Routan vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 684 kg more than 2006 Volvo S40. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Routan | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Routan | S40 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6350 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2084 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5144 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1953 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3078 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 62 L |
