2005 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 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 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 67 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318. 1998 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 318 1998 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 Golf
Year Released 2005 1998
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1982 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 141 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 95.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 218 km/hour 192 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.3 seconds 10.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1398 kg 1331 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 62 L