1954 Aston Martin DB3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 58 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Aston Martin DB3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Aston Martin DB3 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1954 Aston Martin DB3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1954 Aston Martin DB3. (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1954 Aston Martin DB3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 479 kg more than 1954 Aston Martin DB3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Aston Martin DB3 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 1954 Aston Martin DB3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Aston Martin DB3. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Aston Martin DB3. 2012 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 1954 Aston Martin DB3 has manual transmission. 1954 Aston Martin DB3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Aston Martin DB3 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Volkswagen |
| Model | DB3 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 221 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 914 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1050 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
