1996 BMW 318 vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1996 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (107 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 318 | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
