1996 Suzuki Baleno vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Baleno. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Baleno would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. (98 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 343 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Baleno.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Suzuki Baleno | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Baleno | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
