1984 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1984 BMW 318. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 401 kg more than 1984 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 318 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 1984 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 318. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 318 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
