1985 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2010 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Altima is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (109 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Altima weights approximately 586 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | 2010 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Jetta | Altima |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 926 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2675 mm |
