1980 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1998 Holden Nova

To start off, 1998 Holden Nova is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Holden Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Holden Nova (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Holden Nova weights approximately 340 kg more than 1980 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, 1998 Holden Nova (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Holden Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Volkswagen Golf 1998 Holden Nova
Make Volkswagen Holden
Model Golf Nova
Year Released 1980 1998
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1093 cc 1585 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 49 HP 105 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 79 Nm 135 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 750 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 3830 mm 4280 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2470 mm