1981 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (167 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Laurel | Jetta |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1453 mm |