2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 325 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 Z4 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 Z4. 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 Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
