1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (197 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 980 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Express. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2330 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2580 mm |
