1976 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2011 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota RAV4 (179 HP) has 104 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 738 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Toyota RAV4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Toyota RAV4 (233 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
| Model | Golf | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 179 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1558 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2659 mm |
