2009 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP) has 361 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1988 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2480 mm |
