1983 Opel Rekord vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1983 Opel Rekord. (85 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 111 kg more than 1983 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Opel Rekord 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 1983 Opel Rekord. 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Rekord. (193 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Opel Rekord | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2258 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
