1968 Isuzu 117 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Isuzu 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Isuzu 117 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1968 Isuzu 117. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1968 Isuzu 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 192 kg more than 1968 Isuzu 117. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Isuzu 117 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 1968 Isuzu 117. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Isuzu 117. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Isuzu 117.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Isuzu 117 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | 117 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1818 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
