1996 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 BMW X5
To start off, 2011 BMW X5 is newer by 15 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X5 (304 HP @ 440 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2011 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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 BMW X5 (600 Nm) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2011 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2011 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | 2011 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Jetta | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 304 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 440 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4857 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1776 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2934 mm |
