1977 Chrysler Avenger vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chrysler Avenger would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1977 Chrysler Avenger. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1977 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 493 kg more than 1977 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Chrysler Avenger 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 1977 Chrysler Avenger. 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 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Chrysler Avenger. (96 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Chrysler Avenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chrysler Avenger | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Avenger | GTI |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2578 mm |
