1974 Porsche 911 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 2,686 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Porsche 911. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1974 Porsche 911. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 313 kg more than 1974 Porsche 911. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911. 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Porsche 911. (236 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Porsche 911.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Porsche 911 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 911 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2686 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2578 mm |
