1986 Honda Civic vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1986 Honda Civic. (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 415 kg more than 1986 Honda Civic. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Honda Civic. (142 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Honda Civic | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2520 mm |
