1969 Riley Kestrel vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Golf (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (64 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1969 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 275 kg more than 1969 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Riley Kestrel | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Riley | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kestrel | Golf |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1981 |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 55 L |
