1962 BMW 1800 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1800 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1800. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 247 kg more than 1962 BMW 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 BMW 1800 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 1962 BMW 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1800. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 BMW 1800 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1800 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1771 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1043 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
