1974 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (350 Nm) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1091 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.5 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16.5 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1791 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
