1997 Suzuki Vitara 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 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Vitara. (77 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 410 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki Vitara 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Suzuki Vitara | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
Model | Vitara | Jetta |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 77 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 127 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2651 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |