1988 Volkswagen Jetta II (2-doors, facelift 1987) Dimensions, Size & Specs

Production
Model Year:1988
Production Years:1987 - 1991 discontinued in 1991
1415 mm55.7 in4.6 ft
L: 4385 mm172.6 in14.4 ft | W: 1675 mm65.9 in5.5 ft
Length
4385 mm172.6 in14.4 ft
Width
1675 mm65.9 in5.5 ft
Height
1415 mm55.7 in4.6 ft
Trunk Capacity
575 liter20.3 cu ft
Technical Details

Exterior Dimensions

Precise measurements of the 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II, engineered for optimal performance and comfort

Dimensions
Length:4385 mm172.6 in14.4 ft
Width:1675 mm65.9 in5.5 ft
Height:1415 mm55.7 in4.6 ft
Trunk Capacity:575 liter20.3 cu ft
Weight Specifications
Curb Weight:965 kg2127 lbs
Maximal permitted Weight:1470 kg3241 lbs
Tire Specifications
Rims Size:13
Tire Size:175/70 R13 (W:175 | H:70 | D:13)
Useful Information

About 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II

The Volkswagen Jetta II 2-door sedan, produced between 1987 and 1991 with the 1988 model year being a key representative, offers a balanced blend of compact design and practical space for its era. This facelifted second-generation Jetta variant features a length of 4385 mm (172.6 inches), a width of 1675 mm (65.9 inches), and a height of 1415 mm (55.7 inches). These dimensions provide a streamlined profile that is typical of late 1980s sedans, ensuring easy maneuverability in urban and suburban settings. Weighing a curb weight of 965 kg (2128 lbs) and a maximum permissible weight of 1470 kg (3241 lbs), the Jetta II maintains a relatively light footprint, contributing to its fuel efficiency and agile handling characteristics. The sedan’s luggage capacity stands out at 575 liters (approximately 20.3 cubic feet), making it well-suited for everyday commuting and longer trips where luggage space is a priority. The vehicle is equipped with 13-inch rims paired with tires sized 175/70 R13, which complement the car’s overall ride quality and road grip. The Volkswagen Jetta II 2-door facelift model remains a noteworthy example in the compact sedan category, combining classic Volkswagen reliability with dimensions that offer a practical balance between interior comfort and exterior size. Whether for enthusiasts seeking a vintage model or buyers comparing car sizes, the Jetta II provides an insightful reference point for late 1980s sedan design and functional ergonomics.

Exceptional Features

1988 Volkswagen Jetta II Highlights

Discover the standout features that make the 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II a leader in its class

Engine Options

The 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II offered a range of reliable engines including 1.8L inline-4 gasoline engines with both carbureted and fuel-injected variants, providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.

Facelift Design

The 1987 facelift brought updated front and rear styling with redesigned bumpers, a new grille, and improved headlights, enhancing the aerodynamic profile and modernizing the vehicle's appearance.

2-Door Body Style

This model featured a two-door sedan body style, offering a sportier and more compact design compared to the four-door version, appealing to drivers seeking a stylish and nimble vehicle.

Interior Comfort

Equipped with comfortable seating, improved sound insulation, and a functional dashboard layout, the interior of the Jetta II in 1988 focused on driver and passenger comfort and convenience.

Suspension and Handling

The Jetta II featured a front independent suspension and a rear torsion beam axle setup, delivering stable handling and a smooth ride, which was well-regarded among compact sedans of its time.
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

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The 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II facelift measures 4385 mm (172.6 inches) in length, 1675 mm (65.9 inches) in width, and 1415 mm (55.7 inches) in height. These dimensions reflect the compact sedan form factor typical for this generation and provide a good balance between interior space and urban maneuverability. Its size suits both city driving and longer journeys without sacrificing comfort.

The curb weight of the 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II facelift is approximately 965 kilograms (2128 lbs). The maximum permissible weight (gross vehicle weight rating) is 1470 kilograms (3241 lbs). This weight range allows the vehicle to carry passengers and cargo efficiently while maintaining good fuel economy and handling characteristics for a compact sedan.

The Volkswagen Jetta II facelift from 1988 offers a generous luggage capacity of 575 liters (approximately 20.3 cubic feet). This is quite spacious for a compact sedan of its era and often exceeds the cargo space of many competitors from the late 1980s. The rear seats can typically fold down or have a pass-through feature in some models, enhancing cargo flexibility for larger items.

Yes, the 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II facelift easily fits into a standard garage. With its length of 4385 mm (172.6 inches), width of 1675 mm (65.9 inches), and a height of 1415 mm (55.7 inches), it remains compact enough to fit comfortably in garages built to standard dimensions, which are typically around 6 meters (20 feet) deep and 3 meters (10 feet) wide. This makes it practical for owners with typical home garages.

The 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II facelift is equipped with 13-inch rims, paired with tires sized 175/70 R13. This tire and rim combination was common for compact cars of that era, offering a good balance between ride comfort, handling, and fuel efficiency. The 175 mm width and 70% aspect ratio provide ample grip while maintaining a comfortable ride quality.

Compared to the original Jetta I generation, which was produced from 1979 to 1984, the 1988 Jetta II facelift is slightly longer and broader, reflecting a trend towards larger dimensions to improve interior comfort and road presence. The Jetta II ranges about 4385 mm (172.6 inches) long, while the Jetta I was around 4260 mm (167.7 inches) in length. Width and height have also increased modestly, providing more passenger space and trunk capacity, while maintaining a compact sedan profile.

Dimensionally, the 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II facelift compares favorably with similar compact sedans from the late 1980s, such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Escort. With a length of 4385 mm (172.6 inches) and width of 1675 mm (65.9 inches), the Jetta II is slightly larger than many rivals, especially in luggage capacity (575 liters or 20.3 cubic feet). This larger cargo space was one of its competitive advantages, while its modest height of 1415 mm (55.7 inches) helped maintain good aerodynamics and styling.

The 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II facelift is primarily available as a sedan with a 2-door configuration in this specific generation and facelift iteration, which means it features two main doors for passenger entry rather than four. This body style often appeals to buyers looking for a sportier or more streamlined appearance, offering easier access to the front seats with rear seats accessed by folding the front seats forward. Other Jetta II variants may include 4-door sedans not covered here.

The 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II facelift benefits from a well-balanced compact size that offers ample interior and luggage space while maintaining easy handling and good fuel economy. Its light curb weight of 965 kg (2128 lbs) contributes to nimble driving dynamics and efficient acceleration. The relatively large luggage capacity (575 liters) sets it apart from many competitors in its segment. Its dimensions also ensure it fits comfortably in standard garages while providing comfortable seating for four to five passengers, making it an ideal compact sedan for daily commuting and family use.

At a curb weight of 965 kg (2128 lbs), the 1988 Volkswagen Jetta II facelift is relatively lightweight for its class, which positively impacts both performance and fuel efficiency. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and brake, resulting in more responsive handling and shorter stopping distances. Additionally, lighter cars generally consume less fuel, which can lead to cost savings over time. Compared to heavier sedans that might weigh upwards of 1200-1500 kg, the Jetta II delivers a more engaging driving experience and better economy, especially important in an era when fuel prices were a key consideration for buyers.

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