1966 Ginetta G12 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ginetta G12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ginetta G12 would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Ginetta G12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ginetta G12 (158 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ginetta G12 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 68 kg more than 1966 Ginetta G12.
Because 1966 Ginetta G12 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 1966 Ginetta G12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1966 Ginetta G12 (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (114 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Ginetta G12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ginetta G12 | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ginetta | Volkswagen |
| Model | G12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 787 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
