1998 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 2,982 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 504 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Toyota 4Runner (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Toyota 4Runner | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4Runner | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2982 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
