2009 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (101 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 912 kg more than 1999 BMW Z3.
Because 1999 BMW Z3 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 1999 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 Nm). This means 1999 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Jetta | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2307 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
