1973 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 339 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1973 Chevrolet Impala 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 1973 Chevrolet Impala. 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 @ 1700 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chevrolet Impala | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Impala | GTI |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2578 mm |
