The 1986 Jetta came as a 2-door sedan or a 4-door sedan that had four different trims -- base, GL, GLI, and Wolfsburg GLI. The base and GL sedans featured a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder, 85-hp engine. The sportier GLI versions (Wolfsburg is the Germany factory where Jettas were produced) had the same engine retuned to reach 100-hp. All 2 and 4-door models were front-wheel drive and came with 5-speed manual transmission, with 3-speed automatic optional. A 1.6-liter, 52-hp diesel engine is also available.

The Jetta is a good starter family car, with room for four and a surprisingly large trunk, its biggest distinguishing feature from the Volkswagen Golf. Cloth seats are comfortable, though some owners say only for short trips. The 1986 Jetta is also a good city car as it handles nimbly in traffic and gets great gas mileage. All the abuse of city driving does not seem to take a toll on either the powertrain or engine of the 1986 Jetta, and most owners say they're sure their Jetta will outlive them.

Other high points about the 1986 Volkswagen Jetta include the GLI's peppy engine, the large trunk, and its reliability. Repairs are few and far between, it seems, and even when necessary, the parts are pretty cheap and easy to find. The only negative comments concern interior wear and tear and disappointment with the performance of the automatic transmission.