1998 Volvo S80 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 184 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | S80 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1584 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.2 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
