1990 BMW 316 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 84 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 316. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Jetta
Year Released 1990 2006
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1164 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4560 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L