1983 BMW 316 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 417 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1572 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
