2005 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 11 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (237 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Jetta | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1366 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
