2003 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 548 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1382 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
