1959 Talbot Lago America vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Talbot Lago America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Talbot Lago America would be higher. At 2,351 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Talbot Lago America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP) has 119 more horse power than 1959 Talbot Lago America. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1959 Talbot Lago America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 418 kg more than 1959 Talbot Lago America. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Talbot Lago America 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 1959 Talbot Lago America. 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Talbot Lago America. (191 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Talbot Lago America.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Talbot Lago America | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Talbot | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lago America | GTI |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2578 mm |
