2003 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 461 kg more than 1978 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 Volkswagen Golf (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Golf | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1217 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
