2008 Toyota RAV4 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 48 kg more than 2008 Toyota RAV4.
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 Toyota RAV4 (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Toyota RAV4 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 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 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | RAV4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1334 kg | 1382 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 62 L |
