1972 AMC Javelin vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Javelin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Javelin would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Javelin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Javelin (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Javelin should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Javelin weights approximately 238 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 1972 AMC Javelin 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 1972 AMC Javelin. 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, 1972 AMC Javelin (387 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Javelin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 1972 AMC Javelin 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. 1972 AMC Javelin will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Javelin | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Javelin | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1467 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
