1972 Ford GT 40 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford GT 40 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Ford GT 40 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 GT 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (129 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 1983 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford GT 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford GT 40 | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | GT 40 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 980 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 125 L | 55 L |
