1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 BMW 740
To start off, 2011 BMW 740 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 740 (304 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 740 weights approximately 658 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 740. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2011 BMW 740 (600 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 740 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 304 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1292 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5072 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 82 L |
