1971 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 3,521 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1971 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1971 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 27 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1971 Chrysler Valiant 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 1971 Chrysler Valiant. 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chrysler Valiant. (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | GTI |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3521 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2578 mm |
