1988 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 2,446 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1988 Toyota 4Runner. (85 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 583 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1988 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Toyota 4Runner 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Toyota 4Runner. (189 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Toyota 4Runner.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Toyota 4Runner | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4Runner | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2446 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
