1986 Honda Civic vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1986 Honda Civic is newer by 12 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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Honda Civic (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Honda Civic weights approximately 150 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.
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 Honda Civic (142 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 1986 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Honda Civic | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1091 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2410 mm |
