2005 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 27 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (161 HP) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 600 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, 2005 Audi A4 (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Audi A4 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. 2005 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
