1999 Pontiac Salsa vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Pontiac Salsa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Pontiac Salsa would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Salsa (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Salsa should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 1107 kg more than 1999 Pontiac Salsa.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (203 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Pontiac Salsa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Pontiac Salsa | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Salsa | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2307 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2580 mm |
