1987 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 580 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volkswagen Polo | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2580 mm |
