2008 Ford Ranger vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Ford Ranger is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,970 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Ranger (148 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Ranger weights approximately 232 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Ranger 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 Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 Ranger (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ranger | 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ranger | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2970 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
