1998 BMW M vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW M weights approximately 119 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW M 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 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 M (340 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW M | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
