1957 Austin Princess vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Austin Princess. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Austin Princess would be higher. At 3,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1957 Austin Princess. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1957 Austin Princess.
Because 1957 Austin Princess 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 1957 Austin Princess. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Austin Princess. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Austin Princess.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Austin Princess | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Princess | GTI |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3992 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3360 mm | 2578 mm |
