1998 BMW 318 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 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 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 3 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.

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, 2007 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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. 2007 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 2007 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 Golf
Year Released 1998 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1665 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 127 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.8 mm 75.6 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 175 km/hour 161 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 13.9 seconds 16.2 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1290 kg 1293 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1590 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L