2002 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP) has 184 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1120 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Phaeton | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |
