1981 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chevrolet Impala (230 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 905 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2010 Chevrolet Impala (318 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 2010 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Chevrolet Impala | |
Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
Model | Golf | Impala |
Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1093 cc | 3900 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 230 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 79 Nm | 318 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1852 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1491 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2807 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 64 L |