1958 Alvis TD vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Alvis TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Alvis TD would be higher. At 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Alvis TD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1958 Alvis TD. (116 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1958 Alvis TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Alvis TD weights approximately 24 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1958 Alvis TD 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 1958 Alvis TD. 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 (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Alvis TD. (221 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Alvis TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Alvis TD | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Alvis | Volkswagen |
| Model | TD | GTI |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 169 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| 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 | 1425 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
