1974 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 474 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Golf | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1091 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
