2007 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 500 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.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen Golf | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 142 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
