1995 BMW Z3 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1995 BMW Z3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW Z3 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW Z3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW Z3 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 1995 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1995 BMW Z3 (179 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 1995 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW Z3 | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1091 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
