1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 44 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1978 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 1978 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2578 mm |
