1998 Holden Statesman vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Holden Statesman is newer by 17 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Holden Statesman (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Holden Statesman weights approximately 770 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.
Because 1998 Holden Statesman is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Holden Statesman (304 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Holden Statesman | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Statesman | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
