2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri is newer by 21 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri weights approximately 550 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.
Because 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri 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 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri (260 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Centauri | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
