2006 BMW 530 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta.

Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2006 BMW 530 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 530 1990 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 530 Jetta
Year Released 2006 1990
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2999 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 255 HP 54 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2480 mm