1999 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (240 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 70 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Golf | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Golf | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
