2009 Nissan Versa vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2009 Nissan Versa is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Versa (122 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Versa weights approximately 391 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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 Versa (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Versa | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Versa | Santana |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
