1981 Audi 100 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 100 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 290 kg more than 1981 Audi 100. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1981 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1981 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Audi 100 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model 100 Jetta
Year Released 1981 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1587 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 85 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 124 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 1750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1110 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4600 mm 4557 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1781 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2578 mm