2008 BMW 120 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 120 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 50 kg more than 2008 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
