2003 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 168 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1504 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.3 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 6.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
