2009 Hyundai Tucson vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Tucson is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,648 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Tucson (173 HP) has 114 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Tucson weights approximately 314 kg more than 1979 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 Hyundai Tucson (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Tucson will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Hyundai Tucson has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Tucson will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Tucson | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tucson | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2648 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1119 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
