1988 BMW 524 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 524 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 524 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 524 weights approximately 24 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 524 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
