2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 is newer by 28 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), 2009 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler 300 (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 1123 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 2009 Chrysler 300 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 2009 Chrysler 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2009 Chrysler 300 (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Chrysler 300 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. 2009 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chrysler 300 1981 Volkswagen Golf
Make Chrysler Volkswagen
Model 300 Golf
Year Released 2009 1981
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3518 cc 1093 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 250 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 339 Nm 79 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 8.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1873 kg 750 kg
Vehicle Length 5010 mm 3830 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3050 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 45 L