2008 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chevrolet Equinox. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chevrolet Equinox would be higher. At 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 320 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Equinox.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 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, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 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 Chevrolet Equinox (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Equinox | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Equinox | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
