2008 Jeep Commander vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Jeep Commander is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Jeep Commander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jeep Commander (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Commander should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Jeep Commander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Commander 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 Jeep Commander (510 Nm) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 2008 Jeep Commander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Jeep Commander has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Jeep Commander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Jeep Commander | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commander | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2480 mm |
