1978 Nissan Cherry 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 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (51 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 440 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cherry. 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. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1978 Nissan Cherry has manual transmission. 1978 Nissan Cherry 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 Nissan Cherry | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cherry | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1170 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2520 mm |
