1996 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2010 Toyota Highlander

To start off, 2010 Toyota Highlander is newer by 14 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 2,700 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Toyota Highlander (187 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Toyota Highlander 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, 2010 Toyota Highlander (252 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2010 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2010 Toyota Highlander 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. 2010 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Volkswagen Jetta 2010 Toyota Highlander
Make Volkswagen Toyota
Model Jetta Highlander
Year Released 1996 2010
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1897 cc 2700 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 187 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 165 Nm 252 Nm
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4785 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1730 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2789 mm