2003 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1978 Holden GTS

To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,141 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 73 kg more than 1978 Holden GTS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Holden GTS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Holden GTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1978 Holden GTS (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Volkswagen Golf 1978 Holden GTS
Make Volkswagen Holden
Model Golf GTS
Year Released 2003 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3196 cc 4141 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 238 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 4550 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 327 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 2600 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Vehicle Weight 1548 kg 1475 kg
Vehicle Length 4180 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2830 mm