Information on the 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
The 1997 Volkswagen Jetta first started production in 1992 and ran until 1999. Known as the B3 (or third generation) of the popular VW model, it was a huge success for Volkswagen and continues to be. With its distinct European styling it was a popular model for young adults getting into a luxury European model for low cost.
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History
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The first B3 (third generation) Jetta went into production in 1992 (although not released in the U.S. until 1993 due to production challenges) and continued its run until 1998. Learning from the first batch of B3 Jettas that were released, Volkswagen addressed many issues in the later production models including electrical issues, cup holders, oxygen sensors and suspension modifications making the 1997 Volkswagen Jetta a great consumer buy.
Styles
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When stepping into the showroom to pick up a 1997 Volkswagen Jetta consumers were definately not at a lack of options. The 1997 Jetta came in seven different styles: GL, GT, Jazz, Trek, GLS, TDI and the GLX VR6. Each trim level met different criteria for everyone on the road. From the TDI or Turbocharged Direct Injection, GLX VR6 with a 2.8-liter V6 for more performance to the GL base model, which came with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine for the gas conscious consumers. Each trim level offered consumers with options only available for that trim. The 1997 VW Jetta Trek, for example, came with a free bike rack and Trek Mountain Bike at the time of purchase for the outdoors type. While the Jazz edition offered its buyers a high-end stereo system with a trunk-mounted CD changer.
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Engines
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Three different engines were available for the 1997 Volkswagen Jetta between the different trim levels. The base model Jetta came with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 115 horsepower. Next, for those who wanted a bit more punch, there was a 2.8-liter six-cylinder engine producing 172 hp. Finally, there was also an option to get Volkswagens TDI engine in the 1997 Volkswagen Jetta. It produced 90 hp from a 1.9-liter turbo diesel engine. Although the horsepower was low, the biggest appeal to consumers was expected the 40 mpg city/49 mpg hwy.
Safety
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Driver and passenger airbags were standard features on all of the 1997 Volkswagen Jetta trim levels. However, ABS came standard only on the GLX VR6 model. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the B3 Volkswagen Jetta a grade of "Marginal," largely in part to the fact that the left foot score for frontal impact received a "P" for poor.
Consumer Reviews
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The 1997 Volkswagen Jetta largely gets a positive review from current owners. Most talk about the crisp shifting in the vehicle (ones that are equipped with the five-speed manual gearbox), sporty feel and just all around fun to drive experience. That is not to say that the car is not without its problems—from its enigmatic windshield wiper functions to the occasional faulty wire harness or electrical failures.
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References
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