1999 Buick Regal vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1999 Buick Regal is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Buick Regal (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Buick Regal weights approximately 810 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1999 Buick Regal (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. 1999 Buick Regal has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Buick Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Buick Regal 1980 Volkswagen Golf
Make Buick Volkswagen
Model Regal Golf
Year Released 1999 1980
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3789 cc 1093 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 311 Nm 79 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 97 mm 69.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.4:1 8.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 750 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 3830 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2780 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 45 L