2005 BMW 320 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 277 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1999 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 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 320 1999 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Golf
Year Released 2005 1999
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1389 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 73 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 340 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 216 km/hour 171 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.8 seconds 15.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1213 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L