2004 BMW 316 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 7 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 316 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2004 BMW 316 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 2004 BMW 316. 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 (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 316. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 316. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 316 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1265 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 |
