1971 Honda Z 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 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Honda Z would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1971 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1971 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 883 kg more than 1971 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Honda Z | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z | GTI |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 355 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2578 mm |
