1978 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1990 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volkswagen Golf (161 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 257 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1990 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Volkswagen Beetle | 1990 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Beetle | Golf |
Year Released | 1978 | 1990 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 43 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 86 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1077 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1690 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |