1989 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 63 kg more than 1989 Ford Probe. 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 1989 Ford Probe. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
