1996 Hyundai Lantra vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Hyundai Lantra is newer by 18 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 1,494 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Lantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Hyundai Lantra (87 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Lantra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Lantra weights approximately 265 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, 1996 Hyundai Lantra (128 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Hyundai Lantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Lantra | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lantra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1494 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2410 mm |
