1972 Mazda RX-4 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 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 260 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mazda RX-4 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 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Mazda RX-4 | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-4 | GTI |
Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |