2009 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 249 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
