2006 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 9 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 200 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 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2520 mm |
