2004 Ford Mustang vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 26 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 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 736 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.
Because 2004 Ford Mustang 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 2004 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (298 Nm) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3801 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1492 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 45 L |
