1981 Honda Accord vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (80 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 618 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Accord | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Accord | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1602 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
