2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1976 Holden Statesman
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,040 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Statesman (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Statesman weights approximately 135 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Holden Statesman 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 1976 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1976 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 1976 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 1976 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | Jetta | Statesman |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 5040 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4644 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1482 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2651 mm | 2900 mm |
