2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Honda Civic

To start off, 2011 Honda Civic is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 Honda Civic. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2011 Honda Civic.

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 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Civic. (127 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Volkswagen Golf 2011 Honda Civic
Make Volkswagen Honda
Model Golf Civic
Year Released 2008 2011
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1594 cc 1339 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 101 HP 99 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 127 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 4800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1785 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1460 mm