1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (101 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 912 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Z3 (320 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1594 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 148 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |