1962 Ford Popular vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1962 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1962 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 140 kg more than 1962 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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:
| 1962 Ford Popular | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Popular | Golf |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58.9 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
