1980 Toyota Corolla vs. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Toyota Corolla (59 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 10 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Toyota Corolla 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 1980 Toyota Corolla. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Volkswagen Jetta (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Toyota Corolla. (93 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Toyota Corolla | 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corolla | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 54 HP |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 885 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
