2008 Jeep Wrangler vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2008 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 28 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 3,777 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jeep Wrangler (196 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 1085 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 2008 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Jeep Wrangler (315 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Jeep Wrangler 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Jeep Volkswagen
Model Wrangler Jetta
Year Released 2008 1980
Body Type SUV Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3777 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 196 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 315 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 87 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.6:1 23.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 180 km/hour 141 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1950 kg 865 kg
Vehicle Length 4760 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1810 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 40 L