1999 BMW 320 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1999 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 6 kg more than 1999 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 1999 BMW 320 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1999 BMW 320 2013 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Golf
Year Released 1999 2013
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1951 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 134 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1370 kg 1376 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4201 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1779 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 55 L