2002 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2002 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 318 weights approximately 151 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2002 BMW 318 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1239 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |