1997 BMW S3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 32 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
