1990 BMW 316 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 234 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
