2012 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Jeep Wrangler 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jeep Wrangler (285 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 475 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 four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2012 Jeep Wrangler (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 2012 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Wrangler | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1706 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3881 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1872 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1826 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2423 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
