2008 Audi R8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi R8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi R8 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 171 kg more than 2008 Audi R8.
Because 2008 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 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, 2008 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi R8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi R8 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | R8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
