1961 Chrysler Imperial vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Chrysler Imperial. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Chrysler Imperial would be higher. At 5,802 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Chrysler Imperial is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (276 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chrysler Imperial should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 1400 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Chrysler Imperial 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 1961 Chrysler Imperial. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1961 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Chrysler Imperial | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Imperial | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5802 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2360 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6170 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3800 mm | 2480 mm |
