2001 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318.
Because 2001 BMW 318 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 2001 BMW 318. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1453 mm |
