1988 BMW 316 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 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 82 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 459 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1988 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 1988 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1381 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2651 mm |
