1989 Ford Sierra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Sierra (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Sierra should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 162 kg more than 1989 Ford Sierra.
Because 1989 Ford Sierra 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 Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Sierra. (174 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Sierra | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sierra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
