2004 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 BMW X3 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 2,925 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW X3 (225 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (167 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X3 weights approximately 586 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 BMW X3 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, 2004 BMW X3 (290 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm). This means 2004 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW X3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2925 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
