2005 GMC Canyon vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 GMC Canyon is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,458 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 GMC Canyon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 GMC Canyon (220 HP) has 130 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 GMC Canyon should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 GMC Canyon weights approximately 709 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 GMC Canyon is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 GMC Canyon 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, 2005 GMC Canyon (305 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm). This means 2005 GMC Canyon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 GMC Canyon | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Canyon | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3458 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 102 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1894 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
