1997 Volkswagen Fusca 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 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 1487 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Fusca 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 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (321 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. (105 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Fusca | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fusca | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1583 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
