1981 Ford Cortina vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,293 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Cortina (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Cortina weights approximately 155 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Cortina 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 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Cortina | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Cortina | Golf |
Year Released | 1981 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1293 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 92 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |