2001 Toyota Highlander vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Toyota Highlander is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota Highlander (148 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 880 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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 Toyota Highlander (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Toyota Highlander | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Highlander | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 45 L |
