1992 BMW 538 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 538. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 538 would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 538 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 538 (341 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 538 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 538 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 1992 BMW 538. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1992 BMW 538 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 538 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 538 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 538 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 341 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
