1988 Maserati 420 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Maserati 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Maserati 420 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Maserati 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Maserati 420 (217 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Maserati 420 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 35 kg more than 1988 Maserati 420.
Because 1988 Maserati 420 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 1988 Maserati 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1988 Maserati 420 (259 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Maserati 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Maserati 420 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Maserati | Volkswagen |
| Model | 420 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 259 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
