1978 GMC Jimmy vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1978 GMC Jimmy. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Jimmy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 238 kg more than 1978 GMC Jimmy. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Routan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 GMC Jimmy will offer significantly more control. 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 Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 GMC Jimmy. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 GMC Jimmy.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 GMC Jimmy | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimmy | Routan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 2038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3078 mm |
