1972 Triumph TR6 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Triumph TR6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Triumph TR6 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Triumph TR6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1972 Triumph TR6. (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1972 Triumph TR6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 308 kg more than 1972 Triumph TR6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Triumph TR6 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 Triumph TR6. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Triumph TR6. (194 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Triumph TR6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Triumph TR6 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | TR6 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 194 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
