1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 6,553 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 293 kg more than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (403 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen T5. 1972 Ford Gran Torino has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gran Torino | T5 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6553 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 403 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2014 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 80 L |
