2006 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 376 kg more than 1985 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Golf | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1336 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
