2006 Subaru Forester vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Subaru Forester. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Subaru Forester would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP) has 7 more horse power than 2006 Subaru Forester. (163 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2006 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Forester weights approximately 110 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2006 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Forester 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Subaru Forester. (225 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Subaru Forester. 2006 Subaru Forester has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Subaru Forester | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Forester | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
