2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander is newer by 5 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 676 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, 2013 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
| Model | Golf | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
