1997 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 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 30 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 160 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. (271 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alero | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3400 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2651 mm |
