2009 BMW 330 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 330 (228 HP) has 169 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 330 weights approximately 850 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 330 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 2009 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2009 BMW 330 (500 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 330 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 330 Jetta
Year Released 2009 1980
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2993 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 59 HP
Torque 500 Nm 95 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 8.2:1
Top Speed 248 km/hour 142 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1675 kg 825 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 40 L