2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1983 BMW 325
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1983 BMW 325. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 325.
Because 1983 BMW 325 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 1983 BMW 325. 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 (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 325. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 325. 1983 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 1983 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Jetta | 325 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4628 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1453 mm | 1390 mm |
