1989 BMW 850 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 509 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

1989 BMW 850 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 850 Jetta
Year Released 1989 2008
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4988 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 296 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 450 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 4100 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1792 kg 1283 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 55 L