2005 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2005 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 20 kg more than 2005 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2005 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 320 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
