2004 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 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 117 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2004 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 2004 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 (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 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 318 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1894 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1273 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |