1987 Honda Prelude vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 2,479 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1987 Honda Prelude. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1987 Honda Prelude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 129 kg more than 1987 Honda Prelude. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Honda Prelude. (157 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Honda Prelude.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Honda Prelude | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prelude | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1958 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
