2009 BMW 135 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 BMW 135 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 135 weights approximately 142 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 135 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 135. 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 135 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 135 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 135 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 135 Golf
Year Released 2009 1997
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 1894 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 302 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 310 Nm
Torque RPM 1300 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.6 mm 95.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 250 km/hour 192 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 5.7 seconds 11 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1415 kg 1273 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 55 L