1988 Ford Sierra vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1988 Ford Sierra. (74 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 266 kg more than 1988 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Sierra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Sierra. (122 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Sierra | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sierra | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
