1961 Steyr 500 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Steyr 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Steyr 500 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1961 Steyr 500. (19 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 Steyr 500.
Because 1961 Steyr 500 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 Steyr 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Steyr 500. (32 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Steyr 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Steyr 500 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Steyr | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1996 |
| Engine Size | 488 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 19 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 2970 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2480 mm |
