1998 BMW 318 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (137 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 383 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1986 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 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 907 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
