1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 22 kg more than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 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 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (193 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Wrangler | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1417 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
