1989 Nissan Laurel vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan Laurel (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 170 kg more than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 1989 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Nissan Laurel | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Laurel | Jetta |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2651 mm |