1998 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320.
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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI, 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.6 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
