2008 BMW 120 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 120. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 120. 2008 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3990 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2480 mm |
