1978 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 575 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta (279 Nm) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm). This means 1999 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Golf | 1999 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 756 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
