1990-1992 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
1992 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta
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1990-1992 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta ▼
- Price Range: $600 - $1,700
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1992 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Steering/handling
- Maneuverability
- Cargo room
Cons
- Automatic-transmission performance
- Noise
Vehicle Highlights
Both the Golf hatchback and the Jetta's 2-door and 4-door sedans had been restyled in 1985, adding more interior space. For 1990, the Golf/Jetta lineup consisted of 2- and 4-door Golf hatchbacks models in GL trim, plus the sporty GTI model. Volkswagen's Jetta line consisted of 2-door and 4-door sedans in GL, Carat, and GLI trim levels. The entry-level Golf GL and Jetta GL models were powered by a 100-horsepower 1.8-liter 4-cylinder. Slotted above the GL models were the Jetta Carat 4-door sedan and Golf GTI 8V 2-door hatchback, both with a 105-horsepower 1.8-liter. The two flagship models were the Jetta GLI and the GTI. For 1990, only the GLI came equipped with the 16-valve, twin-cam 2.0-liter engine. It delivered 134 horsepower, and came only with a 5-speed manual. Both of the 1.8-liter engines could be mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic. Rounding out the lineup was the Jetta GL Diesel, available only as a 4-door with a 5-speed manual.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Volkswagen Jetta Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 39 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1992 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1992 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf/GTI/Rabbit:
The overdue debut of the 2.0-liter Golf GTI 16V makes news for 1991. Use of the 5-speed manual transmission is mandatory with the new 134-horsepower VW engine.
1992 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf/GTI/Rabbit:
The Jetta's 2-door body style is dropped for '92, and the new 59-horsepower, 1.6-liter ECOdiesel engine arrives to power the Jetta GL Diesel model. The new unit replaces last year's normally aspirated 52-horsepower diesel. And finally, VW joins the rest of the universe and rewires the radios in the Golf/Jetta models so they turn off when the ignition is switched off.
Our road test for the 1990-1992 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1992 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1992 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
These cars impress us with their competent, well-balanced road manners--including the base models. Even more impressive are the Jetta GLI and Golf GTI equipped with the 16-valve 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. Both provide excellent performance with brisk acceleration. Models with the 1.8-liter engine and automatic transmission also accelerate well, but tend to bog down once they shift into third gear. To get the automatic to downshift into second for extra passing power requires a heavy foot on the throttle. A real diamond-in-the-rough is the Jetta GL equipped with the ECOdiesel engine. Not only does it pollute less, it provides real-world fuel economy that approaches or exceeds 40 mpg. Tires grip tenaciously and the firm steering is very responsive. There's some body lean in tight turns, but overall the suspension provides better road-handling ability than is generally found in a subcompact. All Golfs and Jettas are roomy inside, despite their subcompact dimensions, with adequate space in back for two adults. The bucket seats are highly chair-like, providing outstanding back support. Radio and climate controls are mounted high in the center of the dash, where they are easy to see and reach. These utilitarian models both provide generous room for your cargo. The Jetta has a huge trunk, while the rear seats in the Golf fold forward, providing nearly 40 cubic feet of hauling capacity.
Value for the Money
Neither the Golf nor the Jetta is likely to win any beauty contests. However, they are very roomy, economical cars that deliver European performance at a reasonable price.
Neither the Golf nor the Jetta is likely to win any beauty contests. However, they are very roomy, economical cars that deliver European performance at a reasonable price.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Volkswagen Jetta Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 39 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Volkswagen Jetta/Golf/GTI/Rabbit includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Volkswagen Jetta/Golf/GTI/Rabbit .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Engine stalling:
If the engine occasionally loses power, stalls, or stumbles, the problem may be vibration of the mass air flow sensor. (1990-92)
Hard starting:
If the starter does not work when the engine is hot, a relay may have to be installed between the battery and starter solenoid. (1990-92)
Poor drivability:
Magnetic interference can cause drivability problems if the shielding for the oxygen-sensor wiring is damaged. (1990-92)
Starter:
If the starter does not engage, it and the ring gear may be damaged. (1990-91)
Tire wear:
Cupping of the rear tires may be caused by too much positive rear toe, which is corrected by replacing the rear-axle stub shafts. (1990-92)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $560 |
| Alternator | $295 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $670 |
| Brakes | $180 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $515 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,048 |
| Exhaust System | $500 |
| Radiator | $200 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $400 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $220 |
Our price chart for this generation Volkswagen Jetta/Golf/GTI/Rabbit details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1992 | |||
| Cabriolet | $1,900-2,400 | $1,300-1,700 | $300-400 |
| Golf | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| Golf GTI | $1,600-2,000 | $1,100-1,300 | $200-300 |
| Jetta | $1,400-1,800 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| 1991 | |||
| Cabriolet | $1,600-2,100 | $1,100-1,400 | $200-300 |
| Golf | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| Golf GTI | $1,400-1,800 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| Jetta | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| 1990 | |||
| Cabriolet | $1,400-1,900 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| Golf | $1,000-1,400 | $600-800 | $100 |
| Golf GTI | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| Jetta | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Volkswagen Jetta/Golf/GTI/Rabbit include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | 2-door hatchback | 4-door hatchback | 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 97.3 | 97.3 | 97.3 | 97.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 171.7 | 158.0 | 158.0 | 171.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 65.5 | 65.5 | 65.5 | 65.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.7 | 55.7 | 55.7 | 55.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2275 | 2200 | 2270 | 2330 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 16.6 | 39.6 | 39.6 | 16.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 14.5 | 14.5 | 14.5 | 14.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.1 | 38.1 | 38.1 | 38.1 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 39.5 | 39.5 | 39.5 | 39.5 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.1 | 37.5 | 37.5 | 37.1 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.1 | 34.4 | 34.4 | 35.1 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||||
Powertrain Options and Availability
The entry-level Golf GL and Jetta GL models are powered by a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder providing 100 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 107 pound-feet of torque at 3400 rpm. Slotted above the GL models are the Jetta Carat 4-door sedan and Golf GTI 8V 3-door hatchback, both with a slightly more potent version of the same engine, delivering 105 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 110 pound-feet of torque at 3400 rpm. Powering the flagship Jetta GLI and Golf GTI is a new 16-valve, twin-cam 2.0-liter engine. It delivers a lively 134 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 133 pound-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. Rounding out the powertrain offers are two diesel engines provided for the Jetta GL Diesel, available only as a 4-door with a 5-speed manual. The first is a 52-horsepower 1.6-liter 4-cylinder, replaced in '92 when a 59-horsepower, 1.6-liter ECOdiesel engine arrived to power the Jetta. The two engines produce 71 and 81 pound-feet of torque, respectively. All VW engines can be mated to the 5-speed manual, while the 3-speed automatic is only available with the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc I4 | 1.8 / 109 | 100 | 107 | 5-speed manual: 25/32 3-speed automatic: 23/28 |
5-speed manual: 28.3 3-speed automatic: 24.2 |
| ohc I4 | 1.8 / 109 | 105 | 110 | 5-speed manual: 25/32 3-speed automatic: 23/28 |
5-speed manual: 25.5 3-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 2.0 / 121 | 134 | 133 | 5-speed manual: 21/28 | 5-speed manual: 22.6 |
| Diesel ohc I4 | 1.6 / 97 | 52 | 71 | 5-speed manual: 37/43 | 5-speed manual: -- |
| Turbodiesel ohc I4 | 1.6 / 97 | 59 | 81 | 5-speed manual: 37/40 | 5-speed manual: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Germany, Mexico
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Volkswagen Jetta/Golf/GTI/Rabbit include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1992 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1990 Jetta:
Power-steering-pump bracket on some cars could break.
1990:
Brake fluid may exceed allowable operating temperature.
1990:
End cap connecting heat exchanger's core to engine-cooling system could rupture and allow hot coolant to escape into passenger compartment.
1990-91:
Engine preheating tube may not be supported, and may chafe against right front brake line.
1990-92 GLI/GTI w/16-valve engine and California Emissions:
Throttle plate may not return to full idle position.
1991 California Jettas w/cruise control:
Lock-nut rod may not have been properly torqued, so adjustment could change.
1991 Jetta:
Some front-brake hoses are too short and could stretch and develop cracks, which could result in fluid leakage and loss of braking ability.
1992 Jetta:
On a few 4-door sedans with electric windows, rear-door panel openings have sharp edges that can damage insulation of wiring harness, resulting in short circuit and potential for fire.
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