2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP) has 162 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1983 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, 1983 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 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (97 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
