2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Hyundai ix35
To start off, 2012 Hyundai ix35 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 1,685 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai ix35 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai ix35 (113 HP @ 400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai ix35 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai ix35 weights approximately 362 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 Hyundai ix35 (260 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai ix35 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Hyundai ix35 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Hyundai |
| Model | Golf | ix35 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 77.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17:01 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2640 mm |
