2005 BMW 320 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (141 HP) has 88 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 619 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2005 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 320 1988 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Jetta
Year Released 2005 1988
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 141 HP 53 HP
Torque 330 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 17.0:1 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 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1494 kg 875 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2480 mm