1998 BMW 318 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (114 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
