1980 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 680 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
