2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette 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 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette (185 HP) has 136 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette weights approximately 1035 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, 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette (285 Nm) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm). This means 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Silhouette | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3392 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1791 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 45 L |
