2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 31 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elantra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1253 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
