2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1977 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1977 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1977 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 210 kg more than 1977 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Nissan Skyline 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 1977 Nissan Skyline. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 1977 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Jetta | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4644 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1482 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2651 mm | 2620 mm |
