1981 BMW 528 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 100 kg more than 1981 BMW 528.
Because 1981 BMW 528 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 528. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 528 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 528 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 528 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 528 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
