2006 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2009 BMW Z4
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 27 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 2009 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | 2009 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Jetta | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.5 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
