2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 4 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 829 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Golf | Traverse |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 2113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
