1988 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 104 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 1988 BMW M3. 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW M3 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 192 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2651 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |