2004 Pontiac Vibe vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Vibe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Vibe (122 HP) has 63 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Vibe weights approximately 420 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Vibe will offer significantly more control. 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 Pontiac Vibe (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Pontiac Vibe | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vibe | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
