1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 536 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
