1979 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (50 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 597 kg more than 1979 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Golf | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 50 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
