2005 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 BMW X3 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 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW X3 (184 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW X3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
