1982 Ford Taunus vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1982 Ford Taunus. (62 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 149 kg more than 1982 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Ford Taunus 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 1982 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Taunus. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Taunus | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taunus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2590 mm |
