1973 BMW 2004 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 2004. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 2004 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 BMW 2004 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1973 BMW 2004. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 2004. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 155 kg more than 1973 BMW 2004. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 2004 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 1973 BMW 2004. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 2004. (157 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 2004.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 2004 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2004 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2470 mm |
