1959 BMW Isetta vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1959 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 745 kg more than 1959 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW Isetta 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 1959 BMW Isetta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, 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. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1959 BMW Isetta has manual transmission. 1959 BMW Isetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW Isetta | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Isetta | Golf |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 113 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2512 mm |
