2001 Saturn L vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Saturn L is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saturn L weights approximately 150 kg more than 1981 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 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Saturn L | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | L | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
