1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (109 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 329 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
