2012 Volkswagen GTI vs. 1990 Peugeot 309
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Peugeot 309 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 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1990 Peugeot 309. (91 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1990 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 503 kg more than 1990 Peugeot 309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Peugeot 309. (135 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Peugeot 309. 1990 Peugeot 309 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. 1990 Peugeot 309 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen GTI | 1990 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Peugeot |
| Model | GTI | 309 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4213 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1501 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
