2009 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 247 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Toyota 4Runner is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Toyota 4Runner. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Toyota 4Runner (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota 4Runner | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4Runner | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1352 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 55 L |
