1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2490 mm |
