1974 Buick Centurion vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Buick Centurion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Buick Centurion would be higher. At 7,468 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Buick Centurion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Buick Centurion (226 HP) has 177 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Buick Centurion should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Buick Centurion weights approximately 1240 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Buick Centurion 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 Buick Centurion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1974 Buick Centurion (498 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 417 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Buick Centurion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 1974 Buick Centurion has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Buick Centurion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Buick Centurion | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Centurion | Golf |
Year Released | 1974 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7468 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 226 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 498 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 3730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3160 mm | 2410 mm |