2009 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 265 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 906 kg more than 1978 Volvo 265.
Because 1978 Volvo 265 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 1978 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1978 Volvo 265 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Jetta | 265 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2310 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
