1986 Honda Civic vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1986 Honda Civic is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 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) has 76 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Honda Civic weights approximately 70 kg more than 1978 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 @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Honda Civic | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2410 mm |
