1983 Toyota Corolla vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Toyota Corolla 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 (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1983 Toyota Corolla. (63 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1983 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 506 kg more than 1983 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Toyota Corolla 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 1983 Toyota Corolla. 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 (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Toyota Corolla. (98 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Toyota Corolla | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corolla | GTI |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
