2009 BMW 650 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2009 BMW 650 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 650 (361 HP) has 308 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 650 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 650 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 650. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 650 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 392 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 650 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 650 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 650 Jetta
Year Released 2009 1986
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4799 cc 1271 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 361 HP 53 HP
Torque 488 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.3 mm 72 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 875 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1380 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1860 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2790 mm 2480 mm