2005 Nissan 350Z vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 25 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 634 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 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (372 Nm) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Nissan 350Z | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | 350Z | Jetta |
Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 287 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 372 Nm | 100 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 23.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1499 kg | 865 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 40 L |