2004 Panoz Esperante vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Panoz Esperante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Panoz Esperante would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz Esperante (420 HP) has 346 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 320 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 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 2004 Panoz Esperante. 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, 2004 Panoz Esperante (529 Nm) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Panoz Esperante | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Panoz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esperante | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4589 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
