2009 Toyota Prius vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius 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 1,495 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Prius (110 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Prius weights approximately 580 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.
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 Toyota Prius (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Prius will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Prius | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prius | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1495 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
