1985 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 192 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Polo |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 978 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2520 mm |
