1997 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 198 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 318 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |