1986 Honda Civic vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Honda Civic (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 223 kg more than 1986 Honda Civic.
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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Honda Civic. (142 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1123 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2520 mm |
