2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 127 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Nissan Altima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2011 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Jetta | Altima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1271 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
