1972 Toyota Publica vs. 2000 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Toyota Publica would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1972 Toyota Publica. (38 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1972 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 625 kg more than 1972 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Toyota Publica 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 Toyota Publica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Volkswagen Golf (335 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Toyota Publica. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Toyota Publica | 2000 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Publica | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 790 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3680 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2520 mm |
