2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1985 Holden Barina

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Holden Barina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Holden Barina would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1985 Holden Barina. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1985 Holden Barina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 550 kg more than 1985 Holden Barina. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Holden Barina. (85 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Holden Barina. 1985 Holden Barina has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Holden Barina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Volkswagen Golf 1985 Holden Barina
Make Volkswagen Holden
Model Golf Barina
Year Released 2008 1985
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1594 cc 993 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 101 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 85 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1175 kg 625 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 3780 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1550 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2590 mm 2250 mm