2004 Honda Element vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Honda Element. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Honda Element would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2004 Honda Element. (153 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Element weights approximately 159 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Honda Element. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Element. (220 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Element. 2004 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Element | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Element | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1537 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
