1987 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (101 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 372 kg more than 1987 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Polo |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2470 mm |
