1965 Pontiac Tempest vs. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Pontiac Tempest. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Pontiac Tempest would be higher. At 3,522 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Pontiac Tempest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Pontiac Tempest (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Pontiac Tempest should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Pontiac Tempest weights approximately 475 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Pontiac Tempest 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 1965 Pontiac Tempest. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Pontiac Tempest | 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tempest | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3522 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2480 mm |
