1977 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1987 Pontiac Fiero
To start off, 1987 Pontiac Fiero is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Fiero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Pontiac Fiero (140 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Pontiac Fiero should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Pontiac Fiero weights approximately 407 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Pontiac Fiero 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 1987 Pontiac Fiero. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1987 Pontiac Fiero (220 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (83 Nm). This means 1987 Pontiac Fiero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volkswagen Golf | 1987 Pontiac Fiero | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | Golf | Fiero |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2380 mm |
