2003 Chevrolet Tahoe 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 Chevrolet Tahoe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe would be higher. At 4,807 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe (260 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 1020 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe (393 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Chevrolet Tahoe 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Tahoe Golf
Year Released 2003 2008
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4807 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 260 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 393 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83 mm 92.8 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 6 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 2262 kg 1242 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 2010 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1890 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2590 mm