1973 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1973 BMW 525. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 168 kg more than 1973 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 525 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 1973 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 525. (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 525 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
