1985 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Dodge Challenger
To start off, 2012 Dodge Challenger is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Challenger (376 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 322 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 1022 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Dodge Challenger 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 Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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 Challenger (555 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 459 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Dodge Challenger | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Dodge |
| Model | Golf | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 555 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 5022 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1923 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2946 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
