1999 Honda Z vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1999 Honda Z is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (59 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1999 Honda Z. (51 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Santana weights approximately 5 kg more than 1999 Honda Z. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda Z. (60 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Honda Z | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z | Santana |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 654 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 60 L |
