1998 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 71 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1204 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
