2004 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 180 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 2004 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 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 200 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
