1981 Ford Mustang vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1981 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 191 kg more than 1981 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Mustang 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 1981 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Mustang | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Mustang | GTI |
Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2294 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.1 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1376 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1779 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1469 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2578 mm |