2002 Nissan Altima vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (180 HP) has 127 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 415 kg more than 1986 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Altima | 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2480 mm |
