1998 BMW 316 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 316 (106 HP) has 53 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1998 BMW 316 (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
