2009 BMW 320 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (148 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 320 1984 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Golf
Year Released 2009 1984
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
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 148 HP 53 HP
Torque 200 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1395 kg 830 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1820 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.4 L/100km 6.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L