1979 Ford Ranchero 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 Ford Ranchero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Ranchero would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1979 Ford Ranchero. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Ranchero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 475 kg more than 1979 Ford Ranchero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Ford Ranchero 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 Ford Ranchero. 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 Ford Ranchero (170 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (169 Nm). This means 1979 Ford Ranchero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 1979 Ford Ranchero 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 Ford Ranchero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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