1981 Porsche 944 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 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 55 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Porsche 944 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 Porsche 944. 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 944 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2651 mm |
