1985 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 26 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (109 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 538 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 926 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2578 mm |
