1996 Lancia Kappa vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lancia Kappa (173 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 120 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lancia Kappa. (230 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lancia Kappa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lancia Kappa | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kappa | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2451 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2651 mm |
