1986 Ford Orion vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Orion would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Orion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Orion (90 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Orion should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Orion weights approximately 100 kg more than 1988 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, 1986 Ford Orion (133 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Orion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 1986 Ford Orion has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Orion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Orion | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Orion | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
