2004 BMW 118 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 BMW 118 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 118 (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 118 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 118 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 2004 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2004 BMW 118 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 118 | 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 118 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
