1988 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2008 Volvo S60

To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (208 HP) has 155 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 723 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 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 Volvo S60 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Volkswagen Jetta 2008 Volvo S60
Make Volkswagen Volvo
Model Jetta S60
Year Released 1988 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1272 cc 2521 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 53 HP 208 HP
Torque 96 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 875 kg 1598 kg
Vehicle Length 4320 mm 4610 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2720 mm