1984 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1984 BMW 318. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 400 kg more than 1984 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 318 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 318. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 318. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 318 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| 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 Weight | 1000 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
