1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 5,211 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (227 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 98 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (461 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1973 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5211 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2470 mm |
