1971 Opel Manta vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1971 Opel Manta. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 320 kg more than 1971 Opel Manta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Manta 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 Opel Manta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Manta. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Opel Manta | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Manta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2590 mm |
