1998 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (167 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 261 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 320 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 320 | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2169 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90.2 mm |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1239 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |