1976 Dodge Aspen vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 63 kg more than 1976 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Dodge Aspen 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 Dodge Aspen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Dodge Aspen | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Aspen | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 117.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2470 mm |
