2006 BMW 320 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (137 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 673 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2006 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 320 1986 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Golf
Year Released 2006 1986
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1994 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 137 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 86.4 mm
Top Speed 216 km/hour 204 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.2 seconds 8.1 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 907 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L