1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 3 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1382 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
