1989 Ford RS 200 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford RS 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford RS 200 would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford RS 200 (247 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford RS 200 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 58 kg more than 1989 Ford RS 200.

Because 1989 Ford RS 200 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 1989 Ford RS 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1989 Ford RS 200 (292 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (210 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Ford RS 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Ford RS 200 1999 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model RS 200 Golf
Year Released 1989 1999
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 1804 cc 2324 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 247 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 292 Nm 210 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.1 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.7 mm 90.2 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1182 kg 1240 kg
Vehicle Length 4000 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2520 mm