1987 Ford Fiesta vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Fiesta 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 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 628 kg more than 1987 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Fiesta | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | GTI |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 765 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2578 mm |
