1985 Opel Rekord vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1985 Opel Rekord is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Opel Rekord (90 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Opel Rekord weights approximately 285 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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. 1974 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1985 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1985 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Opel Rekord | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | Golf |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
