2001 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 154 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (330 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (280 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M3 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model M3 Jetta
Year Released 2001 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2926 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 317 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 280 Nm
Top Speed 249 km/hour 233 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1550 kg 1396 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 5180 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2580 mm