1987 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,468 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (120 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1987 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1987 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 400 kg more than 1987 Mitsubishi Lancer. 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 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mitsubishi Lancer. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lancer | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2651 mm |
