1996 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 12 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Phaeton (450 Nm) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2890 mm |
