1978 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 33 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 539 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1369 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
