1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 15 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 118 (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 390 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 2012 BMW 118 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 2012 BMW 118. 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, 2012 BMW 118 (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 BMW 118 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | Golf | 118 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 73 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1411 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |