1999 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 1999 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Golf | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
