2005 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 439 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1302 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Golf | 1973 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1191 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1189 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
