1996 Honda Civic vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Honda Civic is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. Both 1996 Honda Civic and 1976 Volkswagen Golf are equipped with a 1,588 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda Civic (127 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda Civic weights approximately 390 kg more than 1976 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, 1996 Honda Civic (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Civic | 1976 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
