2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Magna (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 55 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.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. 1997 Mitsubishi Magna has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 1997 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Jetta | Magna |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4644 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1482 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2651 mm | 2730 mm |
