1997 Lancia Zeta vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Lancia Zeta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lancia Zeta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia Zeta (145 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Zeta should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 900 kg more than 1981 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 Lancia Zeta (235 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lancia Zeta | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Zeta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
