1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 160 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 Z3 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 Z3. 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 (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 191 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 285 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |