1980 Renault 5 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (180 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1980 Renault 5. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 416 kg more than 1980 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Renault 5 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 1980 Renault 5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (236 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 5. (221 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 5 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 5 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
