1957 Ford 17M vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford 17M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford 17M would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1957 Ford 17M. (59 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford 17M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 278 kg more than 1957 Ford 17M. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Ford 17M 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 Ford 17M. 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) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Ford 17M. (129 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Ford 17M.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Ford 17M | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | 17M | GTI |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
