Bachrodt Volkswagen

Comparative Automotive Research has identified no less than 57 advantages that the Volkswagen Golf has over the Toyota Corolla.

MSRP Range
Volkswagen Golf	$17,995 - $28,340
Toyota Corolla	$16,130 - $18,820

Performance

Engine

The Golf (2.0L TDI 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.) has a larger standard engine, a 2.0L I4, than the standard engine in the Corolla, which has a 1.8L I4.

The standard engine in the Golf 2.0L I4 is more powerful, with more horsepower than the standard engine in the Corolla 1.8L I4, 140 HP vs. 132 HP.

The Golf's engines reach maximum power at lower RPM's than the Corolla's engines, as detailed below by trim and engine:

Spec
		RPM's to Peak Torque	RPM's to Peak HP
	Golf 2.0L TDI 2 Dr. 2.0L I4	1750	4000
	Golf 2.0L TDI 4 Dr. 2.0L I4	1750	4000
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr. 2.0L I4	1750	4000
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr. 2.0L I4	1750	4000
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr. 2.0L I4	1750	4000
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr. 2.0L I4	1750	4000
	Corolla	4400	6000

With 236 lb-ft of torque, the standard engine in Golf 2.0L I4 has more low-end power than the standard engine in the Corolla 1.8L I4, which has 128 lb-ft of torque.

The Golf (2.5L 2 Dr., 2.5L 4 Dr., 2.5L Conv 2 Dr., 2.5L Conv 4 Dr., 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr., 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr.) utilizes more effective multi-port fuel injection system than the Corolla, which uses electronic fuel injection system. The multi-port fuel injection system allows for more precise control of the fuel mixture providing the Golf with improved engine response, increased fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

Power-to-weight ratio illustrates the relationship between curb weight and horsepower (Curb Weight / Horsepower). As a rule, the lower the ratio, the faster the vehicle. The Golf, has a lower power-to-weight ratio than the Corolla, as detailed below by trim level and engine:

Spec
		Power To Weight Ratio
	Golf 2.5L 2 Dr. 2.5L I5	17.5
	Golf 2.5L 4 Dr. 2.5L I5	18.2
	Golf 2.5L Conv 2 Dr. 2.5L I5	17.5
	Golf 2.5L Conv 4 Dr. 2.5L I5	18.2
	Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr. 2.5L I5	17.5
	Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr. 2.5L I5	18.2
	Corolla Base 4-Spd AT 1.8L I4	21.1
	Corolla Base 5-Spd MT 1.8L I4	20.8
	Corolla LE 4-Spd AT 1.8L I4	21.1
	Corolla s 4-spd AT 1.8L I4	21.1
	Corolla S 5-Spd MT 1.8L I4	20.8

Reliability

The standard engine in the Golf 2.0L I4 has an larger displacement than the standard engine in the Corolla 1.8L I4, 1968 cc vs. 1798 cc. Engines with larger displacements can produce more power, with less stress, reducing wear and prolonging engine life.

Transmission

An adaptive automatic transmission is a computer-controlled system that automatically adapts response and performance according to driving styles and road conditions. For example, It is able to select optimal shift points and determine the proper gear necessary to climb steep grades or drive downhill. You are more likely to find this type of transmission in the Golf than the Corolla, as shown below:

Spec
		Adaptive Automatic Transmission
	Golf 2.0L TDI 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.0L TDI 4 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.5L 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.5L 4 Dr.	Standard
	Golf 2.5L Conv 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.5L Conv 4 Dr.	Standard
	Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr.	Standard
	Corolla	Not Available

Manually interactive automatic transmissions give the driver complete gear control, like manually-shifted transmissions, but without the inconvenient clutch. This type of transmission is more commonly found in the Golf than the Corolla, as shown below:

Spec
		Manually Interactive Automatic Transmission
	Golf 2.0L TDI 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.0L TDI 4 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.5L 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.5L 4 Dr.	Standard
	Golf 2.5L Conv 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.5L Conv 4 Dr.	Standard
	Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr.	Optional
	Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr.	Standard
	Corolla	Not Available

Warranty

Corrosion Warranty

Volkswagen's corrosion warranty provides better protection than Toyota's. This warranty protects against rust-through (sheetmetal perforation).

Spec
		Corrosion Warranty Months
	Golf	144
	Corolla	60

Economy

Fuel Economy and Emissions

The Golf has a larger fuel tank than the Corolla, 14.5 gal. vs. 13.2 gal. This may give it a greater range before having to stop to refuel.

The Golf is more fuel efficient than the Corolla. Superior fuel efficiency makes the Golf both more environmentally friendly and less expensive to operate than the Corolla.

Spec
		Fuel Economy Hwy	Fuel Economy City
	Golf 2.0L TDI 2 Dr. 2.0L I4	42 mpg.	30 mpg.
	Golf 2.0L TDI 4 Dr. 2.0L I4	42 mpg.	30 mpg.
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr. 2.0L I4	42 mpg.	30 mpg.
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr. 2.0L I4	42 mpg.	30 mpg.
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr. 2.0L I4	42 mpg.	30 mpg.
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr. 2.0L I4	42 mpg.	30 mpg.
	Corolla Base 5-Spd MT 1.8L I4	34 mpg.	27 mpg.
	Corolla Base 4-Spd AT 1.8L I4	34 mpg.	26 mpg.
	Corolla LE 4-Spd AT 1.8L I4	34 mpg.	26 mpg.
	Corolla S 5-Spd MT 1.8L I4	34 mpg.	27 mpg.
	Corolla s 4-spd AT 1.8L I4	34 mpg.	26 mpg.

*Mileage statistics shown are for each vehicle with its standard transmission. Fuel economy is only compared for like engines (i.e. 4 cyl. to 4 cyl.)

The Golf gets more miles from a tank of fuel than the Corolla, as detailed below by trim and engine:

Spec
		Driving Distance
	Golf	493 mi.
	Corolla Base 4-Spd AT 1.8L I4	382.8 mi.
	Corolla Base 5-Spd MT 1.8L I4	396 mi.
	Corolla LE 4-Spd AT 1.8L I4	382.8 mi.
	Corolla s 4-spd AT 1.8L I4	382.8 mi.
	Corolla S 5-Spd MT 1.8L I4	396 mi.

Cost to Own

The base MSRP on the Golf is less than the base MSRP on the Corolla as shown in the table below.

Spec
		Base Price MSRP
	Golf 2.5L 2 Dr.	17,995
	Corolla s 4-spd AT	18,820

Safety and Security

Airbags

Both the Golf and the Corolla feature Standard driver and passenger air bags.

General Safety

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, heavier vehicles are safer in collisions and less affected by crosswinds than lighter vehicles. The Golf is heavier than the Corolla, shown below by trim level and transmission type:

Spec
		Curb Weight MT	Curb Weight AT
	Golf 2.5L 2 Dr.	2967 lbs.	3,023 lbs.
	Golf 2.0L TDI 2 Dr.	2994 lbs.	3,040 lbs.
	Golf 2.5L 4 Dr.	3027 lbs.	3,102 lbs.
	Golf 2.0L TDI 4 Dr.	3073 lbs.	3,120 lbs.
	Golf 2.5L Conv 2 Dr.	2967 lbs.	3,023 lbs.
	Golf 2.5L Conv 4 Dr.	3027 lbs.	3,102 lbs.
	Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr.	2967 lbs.	3,023 lbs.
	Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr.	3027 lbs.	3,102 lbs.
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr.	2994 lbs.	3,040 lbs.
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr.	3073 lbs.	3,120 lbs.
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr.	2994 lbs.	3,040 lbs.
	Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.	3073 lbs.	3,120 lbs.
	Corolla Base 5-Spd MT	2734 lbs.	-
	Corolla Base 4-Spd AT	-	2,767 lbs.
	Corolla LE 4-Spd AT	-	2,800 lbs.
	Corolla S 5-Spd MT	2767 lbs.	-
	Corolla s 4-spd AT	-	2,800 lbs.

The Golf is equipped with Standard FWD.

An anti-theft stereo is offered as a Standard feature on the Golf. This provides a strong theft deterrent, as the radio is disabled and rendered useless when removed from the vehicle. This anti-theft feature is Not Available in the Corolla.

The Standard valet lockout feature gives Golf owners added peace of mind, allowing them to give a parking attendent a special 'valet key' that will operate the ignition and door but will not unlock interior storage compartments. Valet locket protection is Not Available in the Corolla.

Wheel locks are special lug nuts that serve to deter wheel theft by requiring a 'key' for installation and removal. They are Standard equipment on the Golf (2.0L TDI 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.) but are Optional on the Corolla.

The Golf has a Standard rear spoiler, which creates additional downdraft at higher speeds, improving road holding ability. A rear spoiler is Optional on the Corolla (Base 4-Spd AT, Base 5-Spd MT, LE 4-Spd AT).

High intensity discharge (HID) headlights are Standard on the Golf (2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.) but Not Available Corolla. HID headlights offer several advantages - increased visibility due to significantly brighter light, longer lasting/more durable bulbs and much lower energy use.

The Golf features a Standard rear wiper which provides improved visibility by allowing the driver to clean the rear window. This feature is Not Available on the Corolla.

Capacities

Interior Space

The Golf has more passenger volume than the Corolla, 92.9 cu. ft. vs. 92.1 cu. ft.

The Golf has more interior space than the Corolla in the following areas:

Spec
		Head Room, Rear	Head Room, Front
	Golf	38.5 in.	39.3 in.
	Corolla	37.2 in.	38.8 in.

Cargo Space

The Golf has 15.2 cu. ft. of cargo volume compared to 12.3 cu. ft. in the Corolla. The additional cargo space means more room to store and transport packages, luggage, etc.

The Golf has a Standard rear seat pass through, allowing very long items, like snow skis to be transported inside the vehicle. A rear seat pass through is Not Available in the Corolla.

Standard second row fold-down armrests provide a place for the second row passengers to to rest their forearms for added comfort. Second row fold-down armrests are Not Available in the Corolla.

The Golf offers a Standard cargo net that helps secure packages or groceries, while in the Corolla a cargo net is Optional.

Suspension and Handling

General Suspension

The Golf has a independent rear suspension, which is superior to the semi-independent suspension used on the Corolla.

Chassis

The Golf is shorter than the Corolla, making it easier to handle and maneuver as detailed below:

Spec
		Length
	Golf	165.4 in.
	Corolla Base 4-Spd AT	180.0 in.
	Corolla Base 5-Spd MT	180.0 in.
	Corolla LE 4-Spd AT	180.0 in.
	Corolla s 4-spd AT	179.3 in.
	Corolla S 5-Spd MT	179.3 in.

The 'track' (distance between the wheels), of the Golf is greater than that of the Corolla. A wider track produces better handling and a more stable ride.

Spec
		Track, Front
	Golf	60.7 in.
	Corolla Base 5-Spd MT	60.2 in.
	Corolla Base 4-Spd AT	60.2 in.
	Corolla LE 4-Spd AT	60.2 in.
	Corolla S 5-Spd MT	59.7 in.
	Corolla s 4-spd AT	59.7 in.

Wheels and Tires

The lower profile tires (aspect ratio) that come standard on the Golf may provide better handling capability than those on the Corolla. Details below:

Spec
		Tire Aspect Ratio
	Golf	45
	Corolla Base 4-Spd AT	65
	Corolla Base 5-Spd MT	65
	Corolla LE 4-Spd AT	55
	Corolla s 4-spd AT	55
	Corolla S 5-Spd MT	55

In addition to the obvious cosmetic benefit of alloy wheels, they are lighter than traditional steel wheels, providing better performance. Alloy wheels are Optional on the Corolla LE 4-Spd AT but are offered as a Standard feature on the Golf (2.0L TDI 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.).

The Golf comes with a Standard full-size spare tire, a safer alternative to smaller temporary spares. In contrast, a full-size spare is Not Available on the Corolla.

Braking

The Golf has standard front and rear disc brakes but the Corolla only has standard rear Drum brakes. Drums tend to heat up with repeated use and can cause stopping distances to increase.

Advantages

Additional Features

A heated front seat is Standard in the Golf (2.0L TDI 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr., 2.5L Conv 2 Dr., 2.5L Conv 4 Dr., 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr., 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr.), providing additional comfort in very cold weather. This feature is Not Available in the Corolla.

A navigational aid system provides drivers with information such as maps, driving directions and location assistance. A navigation system is a more common feature in the Golf than the Corolla, as shown below.

Spec
		Navigational Aid
	Golf	Standard
	Corolla Base 4-Spd AT	Not Available
	Corolla Base 5-Spd MT	Not Available
	Corolla LE 4-Spd AT	Optional
	Corolla s 4-spd AT	Optional
	Corolla S 5-Spd MT	Optional

Illuminated vanity mirrors are Standard in the Golf but Not Available in the Corolla.

On long road trips in the Golf, drivers can engage the Standard cruise control, reducing fatigue. Cruise control is Not Available in the Corolla (Base 4-Spd AT, Base 5-Spd MT).

The Golf (2.0L TDI 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI 4 Dr., 2.5L 2 Dr., 2.5L 4 Dr., 2.5L Conv 2 Dr., 2.5L Conv 4 Dr., 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr., 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr.) has a Standard compass that helps drivers determine their geographic direction. A compass is Not Available in the Corolla.

The Golf has a Standard engine compartment light, providing illumination to the engine compartment, especially helpful in the event of a nighttime breakdown. An engine compartment light is Not Available in the Corolla.

With a power sunroof, a touch of a button is all it takes to let the sun or the stars shine in. You are more likely to find a power sunroof in the Golf than in the Corolla, as shown below:

Spec
		Power Sunroof
	Golf	Standard
	Corolla Base 4-Spd AT	Not Available
	Corolla Base 5-Spd MT	Not Available
	Corolla LE 4-Spd AT	Optional
	Corolla s 4-spd AT	Optional
	Corolla S 5-Spd MT	Optional

The Golf features Standard automatic headlights that control their on/off capability. Automatic headlights are Not Available on the Corolla.

Heated exterior mirrors are Standard on the Golf, keeping them clear and giving the driver improved visibility. That feature is Not Available on the Corolla (Base 4-Spd AT, Base 5-Spd MT).