1978 Audi 100 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 55 kg more than 1978 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1978 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1978 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Audi 100 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model 100 Golf
Year Released 1978 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1986 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 70 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 125 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76.5 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 23.0:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1210 kg 1265 kg
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 55 L