1996 Nissan Skyline 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 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 2,569 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Nissan Skyline (271 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 100 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, 1996 Nissan Skyline (368 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1996 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1996 Nissan Skyline will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Skyline | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2569 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 368 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2651 mm |
