1972 Ford Custom vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Custom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Custom would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Custom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Custom (140 HP) has 87 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Custom should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Custom weights approximately 939 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 Ford Custom 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 Ford Custom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 Ford Custom (325 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Custom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 1972 Ford Custom has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Custom will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 Ford Custom 1986 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Custom Golf
Year Released 1972 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4942 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 140 HP 53 HP
Torque 325 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 101.6 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.2 mm 72 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1769 kg 830 kg
Vehicle Length 5550 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3080 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 83 L 55 L