1974 Austin Marina vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1976 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Austin Marina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volkswagen Golf (75 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1974 Austin Marina. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Austin Marina weights approximately 60 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1974 Austin Marina 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 1974 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1976 Volkswagen Golf (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Marina | 1976 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Marina | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
