2009 BMW 120 vs. 1992 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 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 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1992 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, 1992 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 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1992 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2480 mm |
