1988 Honda Accord vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,955 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 120 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 175 kg more than 1988 Honda Accord.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Honda Accord. (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Honda Accord | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Accord | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1955 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2578 mm |
