2009 BMW 120 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 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 @ 6700 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 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 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 120 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 120 | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 77.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |