1978 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Kia Picanto
To start off, 2012 Kia Picanto is newer by 34 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 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Picanto (64 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Picanto should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Picanto weights approximately 20 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.
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, 2012 Kia Picanto (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Picanto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Kia Picanto | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Kia |
| Model | Golf | Picanto |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1086 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 64 HP |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 77 mm |
| Top Speed | 138 km/hour | 154 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 35 L |
