2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 470 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 Z4 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 Z4. 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW Z4 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z4 | Golf |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 229 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |