1999 Toyota Prius vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Toyota Prius. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Toyota Prius 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 105 more horse power than 1999 Toyota Prius. (127 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1999 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota Prius weights approximately 214 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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 (300 Nm) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota Prius. (108 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota Prius. 1999 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Toyota Prius | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prius | GTI |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2578 mm |
