1999 BMW 540 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 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 586 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 540 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 540. 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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 540 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 540 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2590 mm |
