2001 BMW M3 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 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 147 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 150 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 2001 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (330 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 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. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
