1990 BMW 316 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 196 kg more than 1990 BMW 316.

Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1990 BMW 316 (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (133 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 1999 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Golf
Year Released 1990 1999
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 66 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 2200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 19.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1276 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L