2008 BMW X3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 395 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
