1970 De Tomaso Pantera vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP) has 291 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1970 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 De Tomaso Pantera weights approximately 577 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 De Tomaso Pantera 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 De Tomaso Pantera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 De Tomaso Pantera (491 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 396 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1970 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 De Tomaso Pantera | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pantera | Golf |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 491 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1382 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
