2005 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 2,374 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 534 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (218 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lancer | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2374 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
