2008 BMW 330 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,979 cc, 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2008 BMW 330 (300 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 330 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2800 cc |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
