1981 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Mustang (173 HP) has 120 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Mustang weights approximately 525 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 Mustang 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 Mustang. 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, 1981 Ford Mustang (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (97 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Mustang | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Mustang | Golf |
Year Released | 1981 | 1983 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 332 Nm | 97 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2340 mm |