1996 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1996 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP) has 70 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 235 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1996 Fiat Barchetta (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Barchetta | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Barchetta | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2410 mm |
