1984 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota Highlander (266 HP) has 213 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 1130 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2013 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2013 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. 2013 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
| Model | Golf | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 266 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
