'97 GLS Air Intake?

I have a 97 GLS MT with 42k. My problem sounds a lot like others, except my car idles fine, has no "check engine" light on, and runs funny reguardless of the weather. When I take my foot off the gas, then accelerate again, there is a couple seconds of hesistation then jerky acceleration. It is impossible to drive smoothly. I replaced the fuel filter, no help. Could this be a air intake or oxygen sensor thing? Is that a pain in the butt to replace?

Sometimes you can get a code even though the light doesn't come on. O2 & mass air flow usually will turn on the light though. Make sure the ignition is okay, see if it gets worse if you spray the secondary (coil & plug) wires with water. Also verify plug type & gap, cap & rotor condition. Lastly check the fuel pressure.

I had a 95 GL with a similar problem. When driving I would lose 30 to 40% power for a few seconds then a quick burst of speed. Some times a jerky start, then the power would resume to 100%. I had it check by a reliable mechanic, they said it was the distributor, I needed a new one. You have low miles, so maybe just some new plugs,cap, and rotor. All cheap to replace.

I had the same problem with my 95 jetta. First check all of you vacume lines, and fuel pressure. If those check out fine, then start your car and unplug your mass airflow meter, wait a couple of seconds and plug it back in. When you unplug it your car should almost die then it sould regain a good idle. If not you need a new mass airflow meter.