1999 BMW 330 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (73 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 685 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 BMW 330 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 1999 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1999 BMW 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

1999 BMW 330 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 330 Jetta
Year Released 1999 1980
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2977 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 73 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2600 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 890 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 40 L