1969 Riley 4 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 Riley 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Riley 4 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) has 47 more horse power than 1969 Riley 4. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1969 Riley 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 27 kg more than 1969 Riley 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Riley 4 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 Riley 4. 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 @ 2400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Riley 4. (121 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Riley 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Riley 4 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Riley | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1622 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
