2002 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 1977 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Prizm is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Prizm weights approximately 340 kg more than 1977 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 Chevrolet Prizm (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Prizm will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Prizm | 1977 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prizm | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
