1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 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 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2012 BMW 320 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 320. 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 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 320 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
