2005 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota RAV4 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 20 kg more than 2005 Toyota RAV4.
Because 2005 Toyota RAV4 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, 2005 Toyota RAV4 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, 2005 Toyota RAV4 (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Toyota RAV4 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | RAV4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1264 kg | 1284 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
