1979 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 4,392 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 244 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1979 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1979 Chevrolet Caprice (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1979 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 1979 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Chevrolet Caprice | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Caprice | Jetta |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4392 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 278 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1644 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2578 mm |