1997 Ford Probe vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Ford Probe is newer by 19 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Probe (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Probe weights approximately 474 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, 1997 Ford Probe (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Probe | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
