1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1985 Holden Barina
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Holden Barina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Holden Barina would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1985 Holden Barina. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1985 Holden Barina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 480 kg more than 1985 Holden Barina. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Holden Barina. (85 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Holden Barina. 1985 Holden Barina has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Holden Barina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 1985 Holden Barina | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | Golf | Barina |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2250 mm |
