1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 102 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (179 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Nissan Laurel | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Laurel | Jetta |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 179 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |