2009 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 347 kg more than 1974 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 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (82 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Golf | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
