2008 Renault Clio vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Renault Clio is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Clio (194 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Clio weights approximately 45 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Renault Clio (215 Nm @ 5550 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 Renault Clio has manual transmission. 2008 Renault Clio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Renault Clio | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Clio | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5550 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
