1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 390 kg more than 1989 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 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Golf | 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Golf | Jetta |
Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 54 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |