1986 Pontiac 1000 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1986 Pontiac 1000 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Golf (127 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac 1000.
Because 1986 Pontiac 1000 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1986 Pontiac 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1985 Volkswagen Golf (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Pontiac 1000 | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1000 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2480 mm |
