2008 Honda Element vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Honda Element 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 2,353 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Honda Element 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 Element 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 Element (218 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Element | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Element | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2353 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
