1971 Oldsmobile 442 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile 442. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile 442 would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile 442 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 (260 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Oldsmobile 442 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 Oldsmobile 442. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 (502 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1971 Oldsmobile 442 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Oldsmobile 442 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | 442 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7467 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2578 mm |
