2007 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 BMW 318 is newer by 10 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2007 BMW 318. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 318 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2007 BMW 318 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 2007 BMW 318. 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, 2007 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 318 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
