2008 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 120 kg more than 2008 BMW 523.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 523 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 523 | Jetta |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 170 HP |
Torque | 230 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |