1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 31 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (176 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 455 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 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. 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, 2011 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 2011 BMW 120 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. 2011 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Jetta | 120 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 141 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 51 L |
