2012 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 4 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 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Honda Civic. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2012 Honda Civic (350 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (201 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2012 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2012 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Honda Civic | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1785 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
