1997 Nissan Laurel vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Laurel (153 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1997 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 1997 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Laurel. (190 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Laurel. 1997 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Nissan Laurel | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Laurel | Jetta |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2651 mm |