1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 543 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 Gran Torino. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Gran Torino (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gran Torino | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1858 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2520 mm |
