2008 BMW X3 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 933 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 2008 BMW X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1982 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
