1987 Ford Sierra vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1987 Ford Sierra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Sierra (66 HP) has 7 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Sierra should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Sierra weights approximately 365 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1987 Ford Sierra 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 Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 Sierra (142 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1987 Ford Sierra 1979 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Sierra Golf
Year Released 1987 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2303 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 66 HP 59 HP
Torque 142 Nm 95 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 805 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 3820 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2410 mm