1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 115 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
