2009 BMW 120 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP) has 119 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 496 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2009 BMW 120 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 120 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 120 | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 340 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |