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Used Volkswagen Jetta for Sale Nationwide
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About 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
Overview

The Volkswagen Jetta offered something for just about everyone in 1996. Looking for an entry-level vehicle that offered dependable transportation, a stylish design, a roomy interior for a family, and good gas mileage? You could opt for the Jetta GL, with a 115-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and such features as bucket seats, power brakes, power door locks, a five-speed manual transmission, and an anti-theft alarm system.
Looking for a few more features? The Jetta Wolfsburg Edition offered a rear spoiler and a power moonroof, while the Jetta GLS offered air conditioning and power windows as standard features.
Need more power? The Jetta GLX was equipped with a 172-horsepower, 2.8-liter V6 that provided ample power for this four-door sedan. The GLX also came with a full package of standard equipment, including a sunroof, air conditioning, power windows, anti-lock brakes, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, cruise control, and power heated mirrors.
In all, seven different trim packages of the Jetta were available, including the Trek, City, and TDI turbodiesel sedans. Volkswagen couldn't be accused of offering limited choices for '96.
As far as drivers were concerned, their opinions of the Jetta were nearly as extensive and varied as the model offerings themselves. Many drivers applauded the Jetta for its design, engineering, roominess, handling, and reliability, but others complained of numerous problems with the car, and noted that repairs could be expensive. ,
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Bob H
Reviewed a 1996 Volkswagen Jetta on Apr 19, 2008
This was my last VW. Bottom of the line GL - the only option on the car was AIR. This had the 115HP 2L 4 banger with a 5 spd manual. The cool thing about this care was that it would run at its HP (115MPH). I once drove from Needles to Newberry Springs in a little over 1 hour. I did the whole run without dropping below 100. However, that was when the car was about 4 months old and the suspension, etc. was still nice and tight. Purcahsed new out the door for about 15,000 and put about 145,000 miles on it. I sold it in 10 years on eBay for $1800. It had some minor problems, but the AIR was still good. Never had any major problems with the car. I recall the biggest expense I had was the ignition switch needed to be replaced - my daughter broke it during my attempts to teach her to drive a stick shift - she gave it up.
Mark G
Reviewed a 1996 Volkswagen Jetta on Mar 2, 2015
Great little car! Fun to drive with good power and decent handling in the corners. My Jetta had an automatic transmission which is a nice option if you're not into the manual shift. The automatic lacked a little in the acceleration, but still fun to drive. Interior was average and the heater/stereo controls were basic along with the sound system. Braking was adequate. This vehicle was very dependable for the time I owned it. Very little maintenance other than routine oil changes, etc.. Nice cargo room in the trunk for the size of the car. Overall very nice little car that is dependable.
Jan K
Reviewed a 1996 Volkswagen 4 Dr Trek Limited Edition Sedan on Apr 10, 2008
Everyone slammed the MKIII for being Mexican garbage. Bah! 11 years old, and the car never had a problem that took more than 20min to fix or cost over $20 (Maintenance aside). Despite having had all 4 wheels off the ground on a few occasions the car never had a squeek or rattle. O.K., the two-point-slow isn't the sexiest engine, but it has potential, and it's reliable as it gets. If you can find on in good shape, you'll be very happy you did.
Prashalin N
Reviewed a 1996 Volkswagen 4 Dr GLX VR6 Sedan on Aug 3, 2008
the car is, was and always willl be an icon due to stunning looks and amazing perfomance. . .if you want one then you better be able to fork out the money because not only is a VR6 in good condition rare but the 2.8 in-line 6 cylender powerhouse wil dry up your pockets but also leave you with no doubt that this is umong the best volkswagens ever made
1996 Volkswagen Jetta Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| 4 Dr City Sedan | -- |
| 4 Dr GL Sedan | $14,725 |
| 4 Dr TDi Turbodiesel Sedan | $15,000 |
| 4 Dr Trek Limited Edition Sedan | $14,975 |
| 4 Dr GLS Sedan | $16,725 |
| 4 Dr GLX VR6 Sedan | $21,035 |
| 4 Dr Wolfsburg Sedan | $14,885 |
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