2001 Ford Mustang vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Ford Mustang is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Mustang (260 HP) has 207 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Mustang weights approximately 468 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Ford Mustang (410 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Mustang | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
