1994 BMW 316 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1994 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 216 kg more than 1994 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1994 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 1994 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1994 BMW 316 2013 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Golf
Year Released 1994 2013
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 103 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 150 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1160 kg 1376 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4201 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1779 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 55 L