1998 BMW 317 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 38 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 317 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
