1997 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 313 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 Nm). This means 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Oldsmobile Alero | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alero | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3400 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2580 mm |
