A budget compact sedan, available as a 2-door or 4-door, the Jetta easily conquered the U.S. market, winning over customers with its blend of optimal performance, reliability, safety, and price. With great gas mileage and few repairs, the Jetta adds up to a practical family car or personal sport compact. The biggest change in the 1987 Volkswagen Jetta is a new and improved and more powerful engine in the performance-oriented GLI. It gets a 16-valve, double overhead cam 1.8, with 123-hp. Coupled with the already supportive Recaro racing seats in the front, the family sedan Jetta becomes a true road rocket. The 1.8, 4-cylinder, 85-hp engine in the base and GL sedans remains the same. What makes the 1987 Jetta stand out from other compact sedans is the Volkwagen engineering that combines stiff suspension with tight cornering and an engine that never quits. Combined with the light weight of the car, it handles breezily, but stays firmly planted on the road. Owners of all Jettas, not just the GLI, praise its performance and how fun it is to drive. They also mention the spacious trunk, and that it's very easy to do your own repairs or modifications. Mostly, those who have owned their 1987 Jetta for almost 20 years now are amazed how neither the engine or the exterior ever shows how hard it's been driven. Drawbacks include the plain styling, cheaply-made interior materials, and an uncomfortable driver's seat.