1977 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 137 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-4 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 1977 Mazda RX-4. 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda RX-4 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-4 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
