2009 Ford E-350 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Ford E-350 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 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford E-350 weights approximately 214 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.
Because 2009 Ford E-350 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 Ford E-350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 398 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Ford E-350 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford E-350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford E-350 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | E-350 | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5408 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 255 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 475 Nm | 77 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 12 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 756 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 45 L |