1996 Volvo V90 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V90 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V90 (177 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V90 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V90 weights approximately 181 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Volvo V90 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Volvo V90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V90. (260 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V90.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo V90 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | V90 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1482 mm |
