2008 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Toyota 4Runner 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota 4Runner (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 75 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.
Because 2008 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Toyota 4Runner | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4Runner | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2520 mm |
