1997 Ford Ranger vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1997 Ford Ranger is newer by 1 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 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Ranger (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1997 Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Ford Ranger (198 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ranger | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Ranger | Jetta |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2507 cc | 1897 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 198 Nm | 165 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |