1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 537 kg more than 1983 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 1983 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 (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1382 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
