1996 BMW 840 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 840. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 840 would be higher. At 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 840 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 840 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 840 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1996 BMW 840 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 840. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 840 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 840 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 840 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 840 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3982 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1453 mm |
