1998 Renault Spider vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Renault Spider is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Renault Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Renault Spider (141 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Renault Spider should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Renault Spider weights approximately 185 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Renault Spider 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 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 Renault Spider (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Renault Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Renault Spider | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
