1987 Vauxhall Nova 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 Vauxhall Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Vauxhall Nova would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (84 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 489 kg more than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. (68 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Vauxhall Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Vauxhall Nova | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2578 mm |
