1973 Morgan 4 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Morgan 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Morgan 4 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1973 Morgan 4. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Morgan 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 678 kg more than 1973 Morgan 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Morgan 4 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 Morgan 4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Morgan 4. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Morgan 4. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1973 Morgan 4 has manual transmission. 1973 Morgan 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Morgan 4 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Morgan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
