1984 Opel Rekord vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1984 Opel Rekord. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1984 Opel Rekord.
Because 1984 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 1984 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Opel Rekord. (143 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Opel Rekord | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | Golf |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |
