1955 Abarth 209 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 209. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 209 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Golf (127 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1955 Abarth 209. (65 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1955 Abarth 209. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 350 kg more than 1955 Abarth 209. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Abarth 209 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Abarth 209. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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:
| 1955 Abarth 209 | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 209 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1087 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
