2009 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 320 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 29 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 80 kg more than 2009 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 320 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 2009 BMW 320. 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 320 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Jetta
Year Released 2009 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 141 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4644 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1778 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1482 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2651 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L