2009 BMW 525 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2009 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 525 (250 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |
