2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1988 GMC Jimmy
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,299 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 GMC Jimmy (158 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 GMC Jimmy should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 50 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 GMC Jimmy 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 Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 GMC Jimmy. (313 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 GMC Jimmy.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 1988 GMC Jimmy | |
| Make | Volkswagen | GMC |
| Model | Jetta | Jimmy |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 4299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4557 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1781 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1504 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2560 mm |
