1996 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 114 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 862 kg more than 1996 BMW 318.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 318 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
