2003 Opel Vectra vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 22 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 325 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (229 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Vectra | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vectra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1410 mm |
