1971 Jensen SP 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 Jensen SP. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Jensen SP would be higher. At 7,206 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Jensen SP is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Jensen SP (385 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (232 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Jensen SP should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Jensen SP weights approximately 382 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Jensen SP 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 Jensen SP. 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, 1971 Jensen SP (557 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1971 Jensen SP will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 1971 Jensen SP has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Jensen SP will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Jensen SP | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Jensen | Volkswagen |
| Model | SP | GTI |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7206 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 385 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1783 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
