1998 BMW M 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 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 158 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW M weights approximately 50 kg more than 2012 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, 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 M (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW M has manual transmission. 1998 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW M | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M | Jetta |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 340 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |