2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 174 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
