2001 Toyota Highlander vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota Highlander (157 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 475 kg more than 2003 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, 2001 Toyota Highlander (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Toyota Highlander | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | Highlander | Golf |
Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2362 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 157 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2512 mm |