2009 Dodge Journey vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Dodge Journey is newer by 1 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Journey is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Journey (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Journey should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Journey weights approximately 442 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, 2009 Dodge Journey (310 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Journey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Journey | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Journey | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 189 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 11.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 55 L |
