1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 527 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
