1996 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 211 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Polo | 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
