1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 103 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (321 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1292 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
