1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 33 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 515 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
