2004 BMW 320 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 BMW 320 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2004 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. 1999 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 320 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1299 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
