1971 Nissan Skyline vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (136 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1971 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 1187 kg more than 1971 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Nissan Skyline 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 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Nissan Skyline | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
