2008 BMW X3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 2 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2010 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, 2010 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2010 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 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model X3 Jetta
Year Released 2008 2010
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 228 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 4554 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1781 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1458 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 55 L