1961 NSU Prinz IV vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 NSU Prinz IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 NSU Prinz IV would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 733 kg more than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 NSU Prinz IV 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 1961 NSU Prinz IV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (165 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (44 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 NSU Prinz IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 NSU Prinz IV | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | NSU | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prinz IV | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 598 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 565 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 55 L |
