1974 Citroen GS vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen GS would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (58 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 406 kg more than 1974 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen GS. (88 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen GS | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | GS | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1222 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
