2009 Acura TL vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 Acura TL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura TL (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (240 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura TL weights approximately 382 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Acura TL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura TL. (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura TL. 2009 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Acura TL 1999 Volkswagen Golf
Make Acura Volkswagen
Model TL Golf
Year Released 2009 1999
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3471 cc 3201 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 280 HP 240 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 344 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.2:1 19.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1852 kg 1470 kg
Vehicle Length 4970 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2780 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 62 L