2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 215 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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 Z4 (250 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (220 Nm). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
