2008 Honda CR-V vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Honda CR-V is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,202 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda CR-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda CR-V (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda CR-V should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.

Because 2008 Honda CR-V is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda CR-V 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 Honda CR-V (340 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Honda CR-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Honda CR-V 1996 Volkswagen Golf
Make Honda Volkswagen
Model CR-V Golf
Year Released 2008 1996
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2202 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 340 Nm 165 Nm
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 97.1 mm 92.7 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 16.7:1 10.0:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4080 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2480 mm