1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1997 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,964 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jeep Wrangler (175 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 497 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Wrangler | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3964 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2480 mm |
