1992 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1992 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 12 kg more than 1992 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 520 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 1992 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 520 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
