1978 Renault 4 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 29 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 668 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4. 2007 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
