2003 Acura EL vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Acura EL. (124 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 51 kg more than 2003 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Acura EL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura EL. (155 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura EL. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 Acura EL has manual transmission. 2003 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Acura EL 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make Acura Volkswagen
Model EL Golf
Year Released 2003 2008
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1668 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 124 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 155 Nm 201 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1180 kg 1231 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2590 mm