2005 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 8 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2005 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 320 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 320 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
