1988 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Honda Accord
To start off, 2012 Honda Accord is newer by 24 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Accord (177 HP) has 124 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Accord weights approximately 622 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.
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 Honda Accord (218 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Honda Accord 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. 2012 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volkswagen Jetta | 2012 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Honda |
| Model | Jetta | Accord |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 177 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1497 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1847 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2799 mm |
