1978 Renault 4 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (53 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 134 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. 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, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1986 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 956 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
