Re: Sport 90 vs. Jetta GLX

[adams@churchill.columbiasc.ncr.com]

> 
> I just got back from my local VW dealer.  I sat in a 95 Jetta GLX
> (with the VR6) engine, and thought it was a very fine car.  The MSRP
> price was $30100 (Canadian $).  This price is somewhat lower then a
> Audi 90 Sport (fwd) and has a few things the Audi 90 doesnt:
> 
> * More recently redesigned sheetmetal (94 I think) vs the 90's
>   sheetmetal from 89 or 90?

The most current Audi had a makeover in 1993 (new front/grill and trunk
redesign).  And the current Jetta came out in ~1991 in Germany.

> * glass sunroof (with screen/shade)
> * a better 0-60 time (7.7 sec)
> * lower profile tires (205/50 15")
> * height adjustable steering wheel
> * 2 additional speakers (8 total) w. Cd-changer controls built in
> * massive trunk space (550 L) I dont really care about this
> * trip computer (The 90 used to have this) + brake wear indicator
> * selective door locking feature
> * some nice exterior features:
>   - darkened rear tailight lenses, headlights
>   - striking BBS wheels
>   - roof mounted whip antenna
> * of course the lower price

Cost of weight and structural rigidity give the GLX better 0-60.  And even
with lower profile tires the GLX is renowned for less than best handling.
You get what you pay for!  

> The Audi benefits:
> * extremely high quality construction and finish
> * very quiet engine
> * better warranty
> * exclusivity

Exclusivity can be extended to include the fact that a GLX is hard to
distinguish from a GL/GLS Jetta.  So within it's own ranks the GLX
fades.  Also, my local Audi/VW dealer is a Hyundai dealer.   And the
similarity in looks between the Hyundais and Jetta/Golf is humbling.
And I had a long conversation last night with a good friend who owns
a 92 Corrado SLC (VR6) and a 1994 Jetta.  He repeatedly commented that
the VWs weren't in the same quality/refinement of Audi (& BMW).

> 
> Dont get me wrong I love Audis, could someone please let me know
> what things the sport 90 holds as a benefit over the Jetta GLX.
> Both cars to me seem very similar.

I think the new VR6 Passat makes a better comparison.  The Jetta is
giving up alot in interior space (not volume).  And the Passat is 
exclusive and distinctive (even with mainstream grill).

I for one was sold on getting a GLX Jetta, until I saw it in person.
However, the Passat definately has some/most of the benefits you mentioned.
To include the lower profile tires, BBS wheels, etc.  And it is priced
only slightly higher than the Jetta GLX.

regards, 

Daniel Adams