1973 Chrysler Charger vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Charger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Charger would be higher. At 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Charger. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Charger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 40 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Charger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Charger 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 1973 Chrysler Charger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Charger. (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Charger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Charger | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Charger | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
