1986 Pontiac 1000 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 1986 Pontiac 1000 is newer by 1 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 18 kg more than 1986 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 Pontiac 1000 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 1986 Pontiac 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac 1000.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Pontiac 1000 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Pontiac Volkswagen
Model 1000 Jetta
Year Released 1986 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1599 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 64 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 109 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 2700 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 960 kg 978 kg
Vehicle Length 4120 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1580 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2400 mm 2480 mm