1996 Porsche 993 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Porsche 993. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche 993 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Porsche 993 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Porsche 993 (282 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 993 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 10 kg more than 1996 Porsche 993.
Because 1996 Porsche 993 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 1996 Porsche 993. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1996 Porsche 993 (342 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Porsche 993 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Porsche 993 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 993 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2651 mm |
