1996 BMW 525 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 123 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 525. 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, 1996 BMW 525 (279 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1563 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
