2012 Volkswagen GTI vs. 1979 Holden GTS
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,141 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1979 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Holden GTS weights approximately 82 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1979 Holden GTS 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 1979 Holden GTS. 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, 1979 Holden GTS (326 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1979 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen GTI | 1979 Holden GTS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | GTI | GTS |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 4141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4213 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1501 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2830 mm |
