2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1974 Holden Statesman
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Holden Statesman (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Holden Statesman weights approximately 251 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Holden Statesman 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 1974 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1974 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1974 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | Golf | Statesman |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5042 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2900 mm |
