1997 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 415 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Polo | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
