1970 Datsun 1200 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 1200 would be higher. At 1,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Datsun 1200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Datsun 1200 (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Datsun 1200 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 55 kg more than 1970 Datsun 1200.
Because 1970 Datsun 1200 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 1970 Datsun 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1970 Datsun 1200 (95 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Datsun 1200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Datsun 1200 | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1200 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 45 L |
