2008 BMW 120 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 11 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 120 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 62 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 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 120. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
