1981 BMW 520 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520.
Because 1981 BMW 520 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2010 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 520 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4554 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1458 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |