1971 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 5,211 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chrysler Valiant (227 HP) has 174 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 625 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Chrysler Valiant 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 1971 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1971 Chrysler Valiant (461 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1971 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chrysler Valiant | 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5211 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2480 mm |
