1991 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 10 kg more than 1991 BMW 318.

Because 1991 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 1991 BMW 318. 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 (240 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 318.

Compare all specifications:

1991 BMW 318 2005 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 Golf
Year Released 1991 2005
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 140 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 19.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 208 km/hour 182 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 10.2 seconds 11.3 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1240 kg 1250 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 55 L