2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 974 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Cherokee | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2169 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2160 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 55 L |
