2005 BMW 530 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2005 BMW 530 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 530 (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 530 weights approximately 630 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 530 (290 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (102 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 2005 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 530 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 530 Jetta
Year Released 2005 1984
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2926 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 225 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 290 Nm 102 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 76.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 23.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 940 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2480 mm