1991 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1991 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 106 kg more than 1991 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 318. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 318 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
