1969 Pontiac GTO vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Pontiac GTO. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Pontiac GTO would be higher. At 6,548 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Pontiac GTO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Pontiac GTO (425 HP) has 366 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Pontiac GTO weights approximately 575 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Pontiac GTO 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 1969 Pontiac GTO. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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:
| 1969 Pontiac GTO | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | GTO | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6548 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 425 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 40 L |
