1971 Ford Mustang vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,726 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (251 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1971 Ford Mustang 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 1971 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Mustang. (146 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Mustang | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4726 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2480 mm |
