1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 57 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1999 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, 1999 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, both vehicles can yield 320 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. 1999 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
