2001 Ford Econovan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2001 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 55 kg more than 2001 Ford Econovan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan 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 2001 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (241 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Econovan. (138 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Econovan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Econovan | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Econovan | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2580 mm |
