1972 BMW Turbo vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW Turbo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW Turbo would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1972 BMW Turbo. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW Turbo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 428 kg more than 1972 BMW Turbo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW Turbo 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 1972 BMW Turbo. 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW Turbo. (177 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW Turbo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW Turbo | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Turbo | GTI |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
