1998 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 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 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 318. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 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 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1893 cc | 2800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 174 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 235 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90.4 mm |
Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |