2009 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 20 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 588 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Passat | 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1463 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
