1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2011 Ford Mustang is newer by 31 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Mustang (305 HP) has 246 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Mustang weights approximately 802 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 2011 Ford Mustang 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 2011 Ford Mustang. 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, 2011 Ford Mustang (379 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Volkswagen Jetta 2011 Ford Mustang
Make Volkswagen Ford
Model Jetta Mustang
Year Released 1980 2011
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1272 cc 3700 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 305 HP
Torque 95 Nm 379 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 825 kg 1627 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 4778 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1877 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1425 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 40 L 61 L