2002 Acura RSX vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Acura RSX is newer by 21 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura RSX (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura RSX weights approximately 480 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, 2002 Acura RSX (193 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm). This means 2002 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 2002 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura RSX | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Acura | Volkswagen |
| Model | RSX | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
