1978 ZIL 117 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 ZIL 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 ZIL 117 would be higher. At 6,958 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 ZIL 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 ZIL 117 (296 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (232 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 ZIL 117 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 ZIL 117 weights approximately 1549 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 ZIL 117 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 1978 ZIL 117. 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, 1978 ZIL 117 (570 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 ZIL 117 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 ZIL 117 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | ZIL | Volkswagen |
| Model | 117 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6958 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2950 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5730 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2080 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2578 mm |
