2012 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1986 Ford Fairlane

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Fairlane (137 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 216 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 Ford Fairlane 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 1986 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1986 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 1986 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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