2003 Subaru Impreza vs. 1990 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2003 Subaru Impreza is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Impreza (246 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 535 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Subaru Impreza (333 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. 2003 Subaru Impreza has automatic transmission and 1990 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1990 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Subaru Impreza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Impreza | 1990 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Impreza | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2480 mm |
