1961 Ford Popular vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1961 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 510 kg more than 1961 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Popular 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 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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. 2007 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1961 Ford Popular has manual transmission. 1961 Ford Popular will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Popular | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Popular | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1170 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
