1971 Ford Mustang vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,726 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (251 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 412 kg more than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Because 1971 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Mustang. (146 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Mustang | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | GTI |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4726 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1779 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2578 mm |
