1973 MG MGB vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 MG MGB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 MG MGB would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 MG MGB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 MG MGB (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 MG MGB should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 MG MGB weights approximately 250 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 MG MGB 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 MG MGB. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 MG MGB (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 MG MGB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1973 MG MGB | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | MG | Volkswagen |
Model | MGB | Golf |
Year Released | 1973 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 97 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 149 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2410 mm |