1965 Toyota Publica vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Toyota Publica would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (53 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1965 Toyota Publica. (29 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1965 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 250 kg more than 1965 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Toyota Publica 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 1965 Toyota Publica. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (97 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Toyota Publica. (55 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Toyota Publica | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Publica | Golf |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 55 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
