1999 Jensen SV-8 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Jensen SV-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Jensen SV-8 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 190 kg more than 1999 Jensen SV-8.
Because 1999 Jensen SV-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1999 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1999 Jensen SV-8 has manual transmission. 1999 Jensen SV-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Jensen SV-8 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Jensen | Volkswagen |
| Model | SV-8 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
