1991 Lada Samara vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Lada Samara is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lada Samara (64 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lada Samara should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lada Samara weights approximately 94 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1991 Lada Samara (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Lada Samara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lada Samara | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lada | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samara | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
