1968 Ford 17 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford 17 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1968 Ford 17. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 161 kg more than 1968 Ford 17. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Ford 17 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 1968 Ford 17. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford 17. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford 17 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | 17 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
