1988 BMW 525 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 443 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2441 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
