1981 Audi 80 vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,144 cc (5 cylinders), 1981 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 1117 kg more than 1981 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | 80 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
