1996 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 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 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volvo S60 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 Volvo S60 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 Volvo S60 (320 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Volvo S60 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 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Jetta | S60 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2800 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| 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 | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2720 mm |
