1984 BMW 323 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,314 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 BMW 323 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 257 kg more than 1984 BMW 323.
Because 1984 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
