2009 BMW 550 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 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 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (73 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 772 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 550 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 550. 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 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 550 | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 550 | Jetta |
Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1588 cc |
Horse Power | 362 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 490 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 23.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 890 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |