1976 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 355 kg more than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 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 (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 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 1976 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler Valiant | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1439 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2590 mm |
