1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (88 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 260 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
