1978 Nissan Silvia vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Silvia would be higher. At 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Nissan Silvia is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 281 kg more than 1978 Nissan Silvia.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Nissan Silvia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Silvia. (148 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Silvia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Silvia | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Silvia | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1770 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1271 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2580 mm |
