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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (129 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 30 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 (305 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 105 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.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 318 1998 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 Golf
Year Released 2005 1998
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1993 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 305 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 10.0:1 19.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 214 km/hour 202 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.3 seconds 10 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1375 kg 1345 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 55 L