2008 Dodge Magnum vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Dodge Magnum is newer by 27 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Magnum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Magnum (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Magnum should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Magnum weights approximately 560 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 2008 Dodge Magnum 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, 2008 Dodge Magnum 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, 2008 Dodge Magnum (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Magnum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Dodge Magnum has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Magnum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Magnum | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Magnum | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
