1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 12 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 5 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, 2010 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 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2010 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4554 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1458 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |
