1997 Mazda MPV vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MPV (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MPV weights approximately 446 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mazda MPV 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 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Mazda MPV (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MPV | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MPV | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2954 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2580 mm |
