2009 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 147 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
