1989 Toyota Corolla vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP) has 107 more horse power than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (63 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1989 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 320 kg more than 1989 Toyota Corolla. 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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (110 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Toyota Corolla. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1989 Toyota Corolla has manual transmission. 1989 Toyota Corolla will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Toyota Corolla | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corolla | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2578 mm |
