1975 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Chrysler Valiant 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 106 more horse power than 1975 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1975 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 508 kg more than 1975 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Chrysler Valiant 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 1975 Chrysler Valiant. 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 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Chrysler Valiant | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | Golf |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1438 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2580 mm |
