1999 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318. 1999 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
