1983 Ford Tempo vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 50 kg more than 1983 Ford Tempo. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Tempo | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tempo | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
