1996 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2002 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Acura |
| Model | Jetta | CL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2800 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2580 mm |
