2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 165 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1271 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
