1981 GMC Jimmy vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 GMC Jimmy (130 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 GMC Jimmy should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 545 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Jimmy will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 GMC Jimmy (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Jimmy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. 1981 GMC Jimmy has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 GMC Jimmy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 GMC Jimmy | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimmy | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6210 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2651 mm |
