1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 29 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (129 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (73 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 357 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | T5 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 168 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
