A 1977 diesel-powered Volkswagen Golf has demonstrated that it can outperform a cutting-edge electric car like the Lucid Air in terms of range.
The test, conducted by the YouTube channel EverydayDriver, pitted three vehicles against each other: the electric Lucid Air, the hybrid Hyundai Sonata, and the classic Volkswagen Golf Mk1 diesel.
The Golf, known as the "Rabbit" in the United States, had been restored to its original 1977 condition.
The goal was simple: see how far each car could travel on a single charge or tank of fuel under normal driving conditions. All three vehicles aimed to reach 725 kilometers (450 miles) without refueling or recharging.
Despite representing the pinnacle of modern electric car technology, the Lucid Air was the first to drop out of the test. Its weight and high energy consumption limited its range, despite its advanced battery.
With the Lucid Air out, the Golf and the Sonata battled on.
The Golf's straightforward design and highly efficient diesel engine, optimized for long journeys, proved to be a formidable competitor.
Realistic Driving Scenarios
To ensure accuracy, the test simulated real-world driving conditions, including highway cruising, urban traffic, and hilly terrain. After hitting their limits, the cars were taken to a closed racetrack to deplete their remaining fuel or charge completely.
The results were clear: the diesel-powered Golf from 1977 outlasted both modern vehicles.
While the Hyundai Sonata performed admirably, it still couldn’t match the Golf’s efficiency and simplicity over long distances.
