1989 Ford Taurus vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1989 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 45 kg more than 1989 Ford Taurus. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Taurus | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2651 mm |
