2002 BMW 318 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 BMW 318 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 318 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2002 BMW 318 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
