1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 213 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 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 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (225 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | GTI |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
