1988 Renault 19 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Renault 19 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Renault 19 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 302 kg more than 1988 Renault 19.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Renault 19. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault 19 has manual transmission. 1988 Renault 19 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Renault 19 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 19 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1763 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1052 kg | 1354 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2520 mm |
