1978 Toyota Celica vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Celica. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 168 kg more than 1978 Toyota Celica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Toyota Celica 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 Toyota Celica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Celica. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Celica.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Toyota Celica 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make Toyota Volkswagen
Model Celica Golf
Year Released 1978 2008
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1967 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 88.5 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 92.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.5:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1116 kg 1284 kg
Vehicle Length 4340 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2510 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 55 L