1968 Ford 17 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 40 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 1,812 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Ford 17 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1968 Ford 17. (81 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 55 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford 17. (132 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | 17 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
