1973 Vauxhall Magnum 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 Vauxhall Magnum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Vauxhall Magnum would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1973 Vauxhall Magnum. (77 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Vauxhall Magnum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 286 kg more than 1973 Vauxhall Magnum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Vauxhall Magnum 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 Vauxhall Magnum. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Vauxhall Magnum. (131 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Vauxhall Magnum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Vauxhall Magnum | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Magnum | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1759 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 77 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 998 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
