1998 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
