2008 BMW X3 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (161 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 663 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 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 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW X3 | 1990 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | X3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1077 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2480 mm |