1986 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (137 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 493 kg more than 1986 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 907 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
