1998 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 77 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 @ 3900 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 Golf
Year Released 1998 2008
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 116 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 155 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.5 mm 86.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 12.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 203 km/hour 189 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12.2 seconds 11.8 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1395 kg 1318 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1590 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.4 L/100km 7.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L