1971 Opel Rekord vs. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Opel Rekord (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Opel Rekord weights approximately 225 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Opel Rekord (120 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1971 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Opel Rekord | 1988 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |
