2012 Toyota iQ vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Toyota iQ is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 2012 Toyota iQ. (89 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota iQ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 688 kg more than 2012 Toyota iQ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota iQ. (190 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota iQ.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Toyota iQ | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | iQ | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1364 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3051 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2000 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 62 L |
