1995 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 140 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 259 kg more than 1995 BMW Z3.
Because 1995 BMW Z3 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 1995 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW Z3. (179 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW Z3 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
