1972 Plymouth Valiant vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Plymouth Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Plymouth Valiant would be higher. At 5,562 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Plymouth Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Plymouth Valiant (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Plymouth Valiant should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Plymouth Valiant weights approximately 544 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Plymouth Valiant 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 Plymouth Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Plymouth Valiant | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5562 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
