1983 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525.
Because 1983 BMW 525 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 1983 BMW 525. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1453 mm |
