1983 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 316 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 225 kg more than 1983 BMW 316.
Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 140 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1983 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 158 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
