2008 Toyota Matrix vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Toyota Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Toyota Matrix would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Toyota Matrix. (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 1223 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Matrix. (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Toyota Matrix | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matrix | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2581 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.1 L/100km | 4.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.1 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
