2006 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 358 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Volkswagen Golf 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Volkswagen Volkswagen
Model Golf Jetta
Year Released 2006 1985
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 23.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 235 km/hour 161 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1336 kg 978 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2480 mm