1998 BMW 320 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 33 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta.

Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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 281 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.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 320 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Jetta
Year Released 1998 2013
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1951 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 134 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 281 Nm 281 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 1700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 92 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1450 kg 1417 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4628 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1778 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1453 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2651 mm
Fuel Consumption 4.5 L/100km 6.2 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 7.7 L/100km 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L