1999 Nissan Z vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Nissan Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Nissan Z would be higher. At 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Nissan Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Nissan Z (197 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1999 Nissan Z 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 1999 Nissan Z. 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, 1999 Nissan Z (245 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Nissan Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Nissan Z | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2389 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2651 mm |
