Difference between a Jetta and a GTI?

faenix

Platinum Member
Sep 28, 2003
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I understand that they're different cars but I don't see much that's different from them.

Also, would you guys get a Jetta/GTI over a Saab 9-3? I've pretty much narrowed my car search to those two.
 

vi edit

Elite Member
Super Moderator
Oct 28, 1999
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Difference between a Jetta and a GTI?

One's a hatchback, the other is a sedan. That's the big one. Outside of that, the GTI has a more sport oriented suspension and only has one engine choice - the 2.0T.

The Jetta can be bought in the GLI trim that is essentially a 4 door sedan version of the GTI but at a $5000 premium.

 

faenix

Platinum Member
Sep 28, 2003
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I don't want to sound like a total idiot but what is the different between a 'more sport orientated suspension' as opposed to a non sport?
 

mitaiwan82

Platinum Member
Nov 29, 2000
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GTI is a top of the line Rabbit/Golf. The top of the line Jetta would be the GLI. They're all based on the same platform and have similar engine choices. Out of all the models you mentioned, I would definitely go for the 5-door GTI with a 6MT.
 

Aharami

Lifer
Aug 31, 2001
21,205
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jetta is a sedan. GTI is a hatchback coupe. they are both based on the same platform. both come in same engine variants (1.8T, VR6, etc). both are FWD. GTI will be lighter. GTI will be more fun to drive.
 

mitaiwan82

Platinum Member
Nov 29, 2000
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Originally posted by: faenix
I don't want to sound like a total idiot but what is the different between a 'more sport orientated suspension' as opposed to a non sport?

lower ride height, stiffer springs and shocks, sway bars
 

Aharami

Lifer
Aug 31, 2001
21,205
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Originally posted by: mitaiwan82
GTI is a top of the line Rabbit/Golf. The top of the line Jetta would be the GLI. They're all based on the same platform and have similar engine choices. Out of all the models you mentioned, I would definitely go for the 5-door GTI with a 6MT.

5 door GTI? i know they sell those in Europe, but does VW sell those in the US too?
 

DougK62

Diamond Member
Mar 28, 2001
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The Golf/Rabbit is just the hatchback version of the Jetta.

I'd take the 9-3 over either.

 

vi edit

Elite Member
Super Moderator
Oct 28, 1999
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Originally posted by: faenix
I don't want to sound like a total idiot but what is the different between a 'more sport orientated suspension' as opposed to a non sport?

Most sport suspensions are a stiffer/harder ride than "base" or luxury oriented ones. The goal is to prevent the car from leaning too much when cornering. Along with the sport setup usually comes with larger wheels and tires that have low profiles and more dry pavment grip helping add more handling ability...but at the cost of a more jaring ride.

The bigger wheels and the material and tread patterns of the wheels are for "good weather" use only. They are not intended for winter/poor weather driving.

 

vi edit

Elite Member
Super Moderator
Oct 28, 1999
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Originally posted by: Aharami
Originally posted by: mitaiwan82
GTI is a top of the line Rabbit/Golf. The top of the line Jetta would be the GLI. They're all based on the same platform and have similar engine choices. Out of all the models you mentioned, I would definitely go for the 5-door GTI with a 6MT.

5 door GTI? i know they sell those in Europe, but does VW sell those in the US too?

Yup.

And IMHO the 4 doors look A LOT better than the 2 door GTI's.
 

PricklyPete

Lifer
Sep 17, 2002
14,582
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Originally posted by: faenix
I don't want to sound like a total idiot but what is the different between a 'more sport orientated suspension' as opposed to a non sport?

Will be more composed in turns...generally less forgiving over bumps.
 

JulesMaximus

No Lifer
Jul 3, 2003
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Originally posted by: PricklyPete
Originally posted by: JulesMaximus
Jetta is a POS

GTI is an expensive POS

Ah...intelligent banter...I wouldn't expect anything more on ATOT.

I was waiting for that. I'm kind of surprised it took so long. ;):p
 

BornStar

Diamond Member
Oct 30, 2001
4,052
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Originally posted by: JeffreyLebowski
If you want a car with electrical problems get the VW, if not, get the Saab.
You must be joking. My sister-in-law's 9-5 had far more electrical problems than either of my wife's Jettas.
 

PricklyPete

Lifer
Sep 17, 2002
14,582
162
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Originally posted by: JeffreyLebowski
If you want a car with electrical problems get the VW, if not, get the Saab.

Yes...you should only drive Toyota or Honda...otherwise you are driving a completely unreliable POS....

:roll: