1999 Volkswagen Jetta IV Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Volkswagen Jetta IV ranges from approximately 1165 kg to 1725 kg (2568 to 3802 lbs), depending on the engine, trim, and equipment levels. The maximum allowable weight, which includes passengers and cargo, is between 1710 kg and 1965 kg (3769 to 4331 lbs). This weight range reflects the car’s versatility, with lighter variants focused on economy and performance, while heavier versions offer additional equipment or more powerful engine options. These weights ensure stable driving dynamics without compromising fuel efficiency.

The Volkswagen Jetta IV offers a luggage capacity of approximately 455 to 460 liters (16.1 to 16.2 cubic feet) with the rear seats up, providing ample room for daily use such as groceries or luggage for a small family. When the rear seats are folded down, the available cargo space dramatically increases to a range of 785 to 1470 liters (27.7 to 51.9 cubic feet), enabling transport of larger items like sports equipment, furniture, or multiple suitcases. This flexibility makes the Jetta IV a practical choice for both everyday and occasional heavy cargo needs.

Yes, the Volkswagen Jetta IV fits comfortably into a standard garage space. Typical single-car garages have dimensions of about 6 meters (20 feet) deep and 3 meters (10 feet) wide, which easily accommodate the Jetta IV’s length of about 4.37 meters (14.3 feet) and width of approximately 1.73 meters (5.7 feet). The car's height, around 1.45 meters (4.8 feet), also poses no vertical clearance issues. Therefore, owners should have no trouble parking the Jetta IV in standard residential garages, making it suitable for homeowners with typical parking facilities.

Compared to the Volkswagen Jetta III, the Jetta IV saw a slight increase in dimensions to enhance interior space and comfort. The Jetta IV’s length ranges from 4374 mm to 4380 mm (172.2 to 172.4 inches), slightly longer than the Jetta III, which measured approximately 4332 mm (170.5 inches). Width and height also saw modest increases; the Jetta IV broadens to about 1730-1740 mm (68.1-68.5 inches) in width compared to the earlier model’s roughly 1680 mm (66.1 inches), and height ranges from 1446-1480 mm (56.9-58.3 inches) versus the Jetta III’s 1430 mm (56.3 inches). These incremental changes contributed to better passenger comfort and more luggage space, reflecting Volkswagen’s evolution toward a more practical and spacious compact sedan.

In the late 1990s to early 2000s, the Volkswagen Jetta IV’s dimensions positioned it competitively among compact sedans like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Focus. With a length of about 4375 mm (172.2 inches), it was slightly longer than the Civic (approx. 4405 mm/173.4 inches) but comparable to the Corolla’s 4330 mm (170.5 inches) and Ford Focus’s 4260 mm (167.7 inches). The Jetta’s width of approximately 1735 mm (68.3 inches) was typical for the segment, offering a balance between interior space and ease of maneuvering. Height was also on par with competitors, ensuring a comfortable cabin without creating excessive wind resistance. Additionally, the Jetta IV’s generous trunk capacity often edged out rivals, making it a preferred choice for those seeking storage in a compact footprint.

The Volkswagen Jetta IV originally came with various rim sizes ranging mainly between 15 and 16 inches, specifically including 6J x 15, 6.5J x 16, and 15 x 16 rim sizes. Corresponding tire sizes designed to fit these rims included 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16, and other variants such as 195/65 HR 15 and 205/55 R16 configurations with different speed ratings (V and W). This variety allowed buyers to choose between different ride comfort, handling characteristics, and performance levels depending on their driving preferences and specific trim options. The tire widths and aspect ratios were well-matched to maintain ride quality while providing confident road grip.

The Volkswagen Jetta IV’s height ranges from approximately 1446 mm to 1480 mm (56.9 to 58.3 inches), a variance of about 3.4 centimeters (1.3 inches). These differences can be attributed to factors such as suspension setup, wheel and tire combinations, and specific trim or market versions. For example, sportier or performance-oriented trims might have a slightly lowered suspension for improved handling, resulting in reduced overall height. Conversely, standard or comfort-focused trims might have a higher stance to enhance ride comfort and ground clearance. Additionally, factory-installed accessories or roof-mounted equipment can slightly affect measured height, though the official spec typically reflects the base vehicle without add-ons.

With rear seats folded, the Volkswagen Jetta IV offers a remarkable luggage capacity ranging from 785 liters to as much as 1470 liters (27.7 to 51.9 cubic feet), which is quite large for a compact sedan. This expansion significantly improves the car’s practicality, allowing owners to transport bulky items like sports gear, sizeable luggage, or even small furniture pieces that would otherwise not fit in typical sedans. Compared to many compact sedans from the era that had fixed rear seats or less folding flexibility, the Jetta IV’s fold-down rear seats provide superior versatility and cargo space, making it an attractive choice for buyers needing a balance between the driving dynamics of a sedan and the cargo capacity approaching that of some hatchbacks or small SUVs.

The curb weight for the Volkswagen Jetta IV spans from around 1165 kg (2568 lbs) for lighter, base models to approximately 1725 kg (3802 lbs) for more fully equipped or higher-performance variants. Lighter models generally benefit from improved fuel efficiency and more agile handling because less mass requires less energy for acceleration and maneuvering. Conversely, heavier models with additional features, larger engines, or all-wheel-drive systems may sacrifice some fuel economy and agility but often provide enhanced safety, ride comfort, and power. Understanding this weight variation helps prospective buyers choose a Jetta IV that best fits their preferences, whether that be economic commuting or sportier, more equipped driving.