1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (129 HP) has 70 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 540 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 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Golf (305 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
