2004 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Tesla Roadster
To start off, 2011 Tesla Roadster is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. In terms of performance, 2011 Tesla Roadster (288 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Tesla Roadster should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 313 kg more than 2011 Tesla Roadster.
Because 2011 Tesla Roadster 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 2011 Tesla Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2011 Tesla Roadster (370 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm). This means 2011 Tesla Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Tesla Roadster | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Tesla |
| Model | Golf | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Type | V | electric |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1128 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2352 mm |
