1974 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 8 kg more than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Chrysler Valiant 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 1974 Chrysler Valiant. 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chrysler Valiant | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | GTI |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2578 mm |
