1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 39 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 1,439 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 586 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1439 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2578 mm |
