1997 Porsche Boxster vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1997 Porsche Boxster. (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1997 Porsche Boxster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 151 kg more than 1997 Porsche Boxster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Porsche Boxster 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 1997 Porsche Boxster. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Porsche Boxster. (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Porsche Boxster | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | Boxster | GTI |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2578 mm |
