1989 BMW 518 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 518 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 154 kg more than 1989 BMW 518.
Because 1989 BMW 518 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 1989 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1989 BMW 518 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 518 | Golf |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
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 | 1160 kg | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |