1966 Ford Cortina vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 46 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP) has 91 more horse power than 1966 Ford Cortina. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 626 kg more than 1966 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Cortina. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Cortina | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cortina | Golf |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1521 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
