2012 Toyota Highlander vs. 2000 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Highlander (280 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 1000 kg more than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Toyota Highlander is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Toyota Highlander | 2000 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Highlander | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2000 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | CVT | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2105 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4796 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2789 mm | 2512 mm |
