1989 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2012 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota 4Runner (270 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 1178 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Toyota 4Runner is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Toyota 4Runner. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Jetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Toyota 4Runner (376 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | 2012 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
| Model | Jetta | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 2053 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4823 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1925 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2789 mm |
