2003 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 4 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW M3 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model M3 Jetta
Year Released 2003 2013
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3168 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 342 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 1381 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4628 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1778 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1453 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2651 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 8.4 L/100km 6.2 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 17.8 L/100km 9.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L