1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,210 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 217 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 Mazda Cosmo. 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 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (142 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cosmo | GTI |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2210 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
