2004 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 3,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota 4Runner (242 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 643 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 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Toyota 4Runner (382 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Toyota 4Runner | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4Runner | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3995 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1257 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
