1998 BMW 317 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 87 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 317 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
