2008 Pontiac G8 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Pontiac G8 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G8 (361 HP) has 302 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac G8 weights approximately 527 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 Pontiac G8 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 2008 Pontiac G8. 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, 2008 Pontiac G8 (522 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac G8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Pontiac G8 has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Pontiac G8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Pontiac G8 | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | G8 | Jetta |
Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5999 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 361 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 522 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1352 kg | 825 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 40 L |