1983 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Dodge Charger
To start off, 2012 Dodge Charger is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Charger (292 HP) has 239 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Charger should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Charger weights approximately 952 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Dodge Charger 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 2012 Dodge Charger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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 Dodge Charger (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Dodge Charger has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Dodge Charger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Dodge Charger | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Dodge |
| Model | Golf | Charger |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 292 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 1797 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 5077 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3053 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
