1988 Honda Civic vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Honda Civic 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 111 more horse power than 1988 Honda Civic. (89 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1988 Honda Civic.
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 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Honda Civic. (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Honda Civic | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
Model | Civic | GTI |
Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1396 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1501 mm |