1996 Renault Clio vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Clio would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Clio (250 HP) has 110 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Clio weights approximately 186 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Renault Clio 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 Renault Clio. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Renault Clio (407 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (320 Nm). This means 1996 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Clio | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Clio | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2578 mm |
