1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 315 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 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 2012 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (298 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | Golf | Z4 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1389 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 73 HP | 255 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 298 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2497 mm |