2008 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 189 kg more than 2008 Honda Civic.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Civic. (135 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Civic. 2008 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Civic | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1600 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
