1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,292 cc (2 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (120 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 284 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cosmo | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2651 mm |
