1981 Toyota Celica vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Toyota Celica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Toyota Celica (107 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Toyota Celica should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Toyota Celica weights approximately 235 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Celica 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 Toyota Celica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1981 Toyota Celica (147 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Toyota Celica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Toyota Celica | 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Celica | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2480 mm |
