2009 BMW 325 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 164 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta (279 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 325. (270 Nm). This means 1999 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 325.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 325 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 Jetta
Year Released 2009 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2801 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 215 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 279 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 10.6:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1495 kg 1331 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4380 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L