2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 546 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 Z4 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW Z4 | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z4 | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |