1999 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 1 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 140 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 1999 BMW 318 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 1999 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (202 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
