2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2012 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. Both 2012 Volkswagen Jetta and 2013 Volkswagen Golf are equipped with a 2,000 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 6 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4557 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1781 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1504 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 5.6 L/100km | 4.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.8 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
