1986 Nissan Pulsar vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Nissan Pulsar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan Pulsar would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 535 kg more than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan Pulsar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Nissan Pulsar | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pulsar | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1270 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2651 mm |
