2005 BMW 318 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 318 (149 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 575 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2005 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 1976 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2410 mm |
