2009 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 874 kg more than 1978 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, 2009 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 45 L |
