2004 BMW 318 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (157 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
