1985 BMW 324 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1985 BMW 324. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 140 kg more than 1985 BMW 324. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1985 BMW 324 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 1985 BMW 324. 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 (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 324. (152 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 324.

Compare all specifications:

1985 BMW 324 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 324 Jetta
Year Released 1985 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 85 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 152 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 1500 RPM
Top Speed 161 km/hour 201 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 15.5 seconds 9.8 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1260 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 Consumption Highway 7.1 L/100km 5.1 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 8.9 L/100km 8.2 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 5.6 L/100km 6.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L