1966 Ford Cortina vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 49 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Cortina weights approximately 145 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1966 Ford Cortina 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 1966 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1966 Ford Cortina (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Ford Cortina | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Cortina | Golf |
Year Released | 1966 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 185 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 45 L |