1984 BMW 316 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 391 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1984 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 1984 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316. 1984 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1984 BMW 316 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Jetta
Year Released 1984 2013
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1767 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 88 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 1381 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4628 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1778 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1453 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2651 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L