2006 BMW 523 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 523 weights approximately 504 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 Volkswagen Jetta (279 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm). This means 1999 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 523 | 1999 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 523 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2801 cc |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
