2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (305 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 282 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.

Because 2012 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Mustang (379 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Volkswagen Golf 2012 Ford Mustang
Make Volkswagen Ford
Model Golf Mustang
Year Released 2008 2012
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 3700 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 114 HP 305 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 379 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1284 kg 1566 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 61 L