1986 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 240 kg more than 1986 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. 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 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
