1981 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 172 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Caprice | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caprice | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
