1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 BMW 123
To start off, 2012 BMW 123 is newer by 14 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 123 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 123 (202 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 123 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 123 weights approximately 270 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 2012 BMW 123. 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, 2012 BMW 123 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (305 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 123 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 BMW 123 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | 123 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
