1969 Porsche 912 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Porsche 912. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Porsche 912 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1969 Porsche 912. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1969 Porsche 912. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 205 kg more than 1969 Porsche 912. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Porsche 912 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 1969 Porsche 912. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Porsche 912. (133 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Porsche 912. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1969 Porsche 912 has manual transmission. 1969 Porsche 912 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Porsche 912 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 912 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
