1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1972 Volvo 145
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volvo 145 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volvo 145 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volvo 145 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volvo 145 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 1972 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1972 Volvo 145 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1972 Volvo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 1972 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Jetta | 145 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
