1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 14 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 7,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (286 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1024 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 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (555 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7439 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 555 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2424 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2651 mm |
