1987 Ford Fairlane vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,088 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1987 Ford Fairlane. (137 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 284 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1987 Ford Fairlane 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 1987 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1987 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Fairlane has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Fairlane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Fairlane | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fairlane | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4088 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2578 mm |
