1996 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2010 BMW 120
To start off, 2010 BMW 120 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2010 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2010 BMW 120.
Because 2010 BMW 120 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 2010 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 BMW 120. (200 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | 2010 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Jetta | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2800 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2670 mm |
