1989 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Tesla Roadster
To start off, 2011 Tesla Roadster is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. In terms of performance, 2011 Tesla Roadster (288 HP) has 235 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Tesla Roadster should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Tesla Roadster weights approximately 405 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Tesla Roadster 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 2011 Tesla Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2011 Tesla Roadster (400 Nm) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm). This means 2011 Tesla Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Tesla Roadster | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Tesla |
| Model | Golf | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 288 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Electric |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Single Speed |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1128 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2352 mm |
