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 20 more horse power than 1999 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 5900 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. 1999 BMW 320 weights approximately 44 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 320.
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 | 1991 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1420 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 | 63 L | 55 L |
