1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 34 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 6,553 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 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 678 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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 (403 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 1972 Ford Gran Torino has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gran Torino | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6553 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 403 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2014 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
