1971 Subaru R-2 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1971 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1971 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1971 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Subaru R-2 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 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Subaru R-2. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1971 Subaru R-2 has manual transmission. 1971 Subaru R-2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Subaru R-2 | 2010 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | R-2 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2578 mm |
