1996 Porsche Boxster vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 28 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Porsche Boxster 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 Boxster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Porsche Boxster | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | Boxster | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1252 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
