2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volvo S60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volvo S60 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 101 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 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S60. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S60. 2008 Volvo S60 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. 2008 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Jetta | S60 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4644 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1482 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2651 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
