1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1985 Vauxhall Carlton

To start off, 1985 Vauxhall Carlton is newer by 5 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Vauxhall Carlton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Vauxhall Carlton (89 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Vauxhall Carlton should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Vauxhall Carlton weights approximately 325 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 1985 Vauxhall Carlton 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 1985 Vauxhall Carlton. 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, 1985 Vauxhall Carlton (143 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Vauxhall Carlton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 1985 Vauxhall Carlton has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Vauxhall Carlton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Volkswagen Jetta 1985 Vauxhall Carlton
Make Volkswagen Vauxhall
Model Jetta Carlton
Year Released 1980 1985
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1272 cc 1794 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 89 HP
Torque 95 Nm 143 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 825 kg 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 4690 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2680 mm