2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,248 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 735 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3248 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
