1981 Pontiac 1000 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (84 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 269 kg more than 1981 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Pontiac 1000 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 Pontiac 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac 1000.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Pontiac 1000 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | 1000 | Golf |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 84 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 109 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1229 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2578 mm |