2009 Nissan Altima vs. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (173 HP) has 120 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 567 kg more than 1988 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (181 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Nissan Altima | 1988 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Altima | Jetta |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 181 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2480 mm |