1979 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2007 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2007 Panoz Esperante is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Panoz Esperante (305 HP) has 246 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2007 Panoz Esperante 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 2007 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2007 Panoz Esperante (434 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Golf | 2007 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Panoz |
| Model | Golf | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 305 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
