2005 Porsche 996 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,589 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 996 (315 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2005 Porsche 996 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 2005 Porsche 996. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2005 Porsche 996 (400 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2005 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Porsche 996 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 996 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3589 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1453 mm |
