2009 BMW 120 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 26 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (154 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 695 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 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, 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, 2009 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (97 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 120 1983 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 120 Golf
Year Released 2009 1983
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 154 HP 53 HP
Torque 200 Nm 97 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 72 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 830 kg
Vehicle Length 4250 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1750 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 6.6 L/100km 6.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 55 L