2011 Volkswagen GTI vs. 1981 Ford Granada

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Granada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Granada would be higher. At 2,292 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Granada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1981 Ford Granada. (112 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Granada.

Because 1981 Ford Granada 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 1981 Ford Granada. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Granada. (176 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Granada. 1981 Ford Granada has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Ford Granada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2011 Volkswagen GTI 1981 Ford Granada
Make Volkswagen Ford
Model GTI Granada
Year Released 2011 1981
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2000 cc 2292 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 200 HP 112 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 176 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 4211 mm 4890 mm
Vehicle Width 1778 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1468 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2578 mm 2780 mm