1988 BMW 730 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 730 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1988 BMW 730 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 1988 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1988 BMW 730 (260 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 1988 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 730 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 730 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2984 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
