1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1983 Ford Fiesta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volkswagen Golf (75 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 105 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1976 Volkswagen Golf (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1976 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 1976 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2410 mm |
