1987 Ford Mustang vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1987 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 298 kg more than 1987 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Mustang | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2470 mm |
