1972 Honda Civic vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1972 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1972 Honda Civic.
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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (207 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Honda Civic | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | GTI |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1169 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2580 mm |
