2001 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Hyundai Elantra (104 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 369 kg more than 1986 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, 2001 Hyundai Elantra (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Elantra | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elantra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1199 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
