1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 87 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Golf | Jetta |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 116 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2580 mm |