1996 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2651 mm |
