2006 Toyota Highlander vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Toyota Highlander is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Highlander (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 170 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Toyota Highlander (302 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Toyota Highlander | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Highlander | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 302 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
