2008 Ford Mustang vs. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Ford Mustang is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Mustang (315 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Ford Mustang 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 2008 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2008 Ford Mustang (441 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Mustang | 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
