1998 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 2 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 316 (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. 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, both vehicles can yield 165 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 BMW 316 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. 1998 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
