1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 28 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V50 (123 HP) has 64 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 545 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.
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, 2008 Volvo V50 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Jetta | V50 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 142 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |
