2009 Pontiac Solstice vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 579 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Pontiac Solstice (353 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Pontiac Solstice | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Solstice | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 45 L |
