2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 54 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (299 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4. 1998 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
