1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 175 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 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
