2008 Toyota RAV4 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Toyota RAV4 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 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Toyota RAV4. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota RAV4.
Because 2008 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota RAV4. (224 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota RAV4. 2008 Toyota RAV4 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Toyota RAV4 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | RAV4 | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2362 cc | 2801 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 166 HP | 172 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 235 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2480 mm |