Factory code: Type 16 notchback saloon
The Volkswagen Jetta I is unveiled in July 1979 and goes on sale in October. The new model is based on the technology and key components of the VW Golf I. The body of the donor model is retained up to the B-pillar. The two- and four-door saloon differ from the Golf I at the front with rectangular headlights and vertical indicator lights.
The Jetta is approximately 40 centimetres longer than its little brother and slightly heavier (kerb weight 805 kilograms). The Jetta's trump card is its impressive boot capacity of 520 litres. To ensure that the maximum permissible gross weight could be safely transported, the rear axle is equipped with an additional stabiliser.
The Jetta is launched with all the model updates previously implemented in the Golf, including the new cockpit and plastic-coated bumpers. It is also the first Volkswagen to feature the new wax flooding process, which protects even the smallest cavities from rust.
The Jetta is available with the same range of engines as the Golf I – right up to the GTI engine. This variant is called the Jetta GLI and has a more comfort-oriented equipment package.
In its debut year, 1979, the VW Jetta I achieves the highest sales figures of its career: 90,000 vehicles are delivered.
