1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1977 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 355 kg more than 1977 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 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 1977 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
