1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2009 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 BMW 316 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 316 (113 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 316 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 316 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 BMW 316 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 2009 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Jetta | 316 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 113 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 63 L |
