1978 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 371 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi R8 weights approximately 805 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Audi |
| Model | Golf | R8 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
