1970 Maserati Mistral vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Maserati Mistral. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Maserati Mistral would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Maserati Mistral is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Maserati Mistral (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Maserati Mistral should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Maserati Mistral weights approximately 400 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 1970 Maserati Mistral 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 1970 Maserati Mistral. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1970 Maserati Mistral (363 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1970 Maserati Mistral will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Maserati Mistral | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Maserati | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mistral | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
