1998 Volkswagen Microbus vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTD
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTD is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTD should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 251 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTD.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Microbus 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 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTD, 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 GTD (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Microbus | 2012 Volkswagen GTD | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Microbus | GTD |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1409 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2578 mm |
