2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 248 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 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
